Films So Good

We previously highlighted “Midsommar” as one of the best movies for 2019. Now it’s time to write a movie review about it. “Midsommar,” directed by Ari Aster, is a visually stunning and deeply exploration of grief, lonileness, trauma, and the sinister side of human nature. Set against the backdrop of a remote Swedish village during their midsummer festival, the film takes viewers on a creepy and intense ride full of horror and mostly psychological elements.

The story follows Dani (Florence Pugh), who is grappling with a devastating loss of her family, as she accompanies her boyfriend Christian (Jack Reynor) and his friends on a trip to an isolated but idyllic commune. What begins as a picturesque getaway quickly devolves into a nightmarish ordeal as the true nature of the village’s rituals and customs are revealed.

Florence Pugh’s performance is a standout, bringing depth and vulnerability to her portrayal of Dani. Her emotional journey is both heartbreaking and compelling, making her character’s immersion in the bizarre world of the commune even more impactful. The supporting cast, including Jack Reynor, William Jackson Harper, and Will Poulter, also deliver strong performances, each adding layers to the film’s complex narrative.

Ari Aster’s direction is masterful, using the bright, almost blinding daylight of the Swedish summer to create an atmosphere of disorientation and unease. The cinematography by Pawel Pogorzelski is breathtaking, with wide shots of lush landscapes juxtaposed with disturbing and meticulously crafted scenes of ritualistic horror. The film’s score, composed by Bobby Krlic (The Haxan Cloak), further enhances the eerie and unsettling mood.

“Midsommar” relies more on psychological tension and a slow-building sense of dread. The pacing can feel slow at times, but this deliberate approach allows the story to unfold in a way that keeps the audience constantly on edge. One of the most striking aspects of “Midsommar” is its ability to maintain a sense of beauty amidst the horror. The contrast between the film’s stunning visual aesthetics and its disturbing content creates a unique and memorable viewing experience.

Maybe I am biased because I enjoy movies with folk themes, but I absolutely loved “Midsommar”. It’s a haunting and immersive film that lingers long after the credits roll. It challenges the conventions of the horror genre and offers a fresh and unsettling perspective on human nature and the darkness that can lie beneath seemingly idyllic surfaces. Although it runs a bit long (148 minutes), it’s definitely worth watching if you haven’t seen it yet. Additionally, it has one of the strongest endings of the last decade.

Movie Rating: 83/100

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