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Turner & Harington's Sinister Reunion
28 Feb
Summary
- Natasha Kermani directs a medieval horror film riffing on "Onibaba".
- Sophie Turner and Kit Harington reunite in a dark, supernatural tale.
- Marcia Gay Harden delivers a standout performance as a wicked mother-in-law.
Natasha Kermani's "The Dreadful" presents a sinister, albeit uneven, take on the 1964 classic "Onibaba." Set in the 15th century, the film follows Anne, whose husband has gone to war, leaving her and her mother-in-law, Morwen, to survive.
Morwen, portrayed compellingly by Marcia Gay Harden, descends into theft and murder, eventually forcing Anne to participate. When Anne's childhood friend Jago, played by Kit Harington, brings news of her husband's death, Morwen intensifies her violent spree.
Sophie Turner stars as Anne, grappling with envy and lust while trying to maintain her piety. A supernatural monster knight also roams the woods, a detail that proves significant later.
Harington's performance is noted for its distinct "character actor" mode, while Harden's turn as Morwen is highlighted as a scene-stealing, perfidious performance. Kermani's intentional imbalance in character focus eventually serves the narrative, despite occasional narrative strain.
Ultimately, "The Dreadful" is a potent, mixed-bag tale exploring themes of religion, feminism, and the horrors of war, with Harden's performance being a significant draw.
