Gory Thrills: Vampire Western 'Half' Delivers Mayhem

Malayalam-language film "Half" presents a vampire western narrative with a strong emphasis on gore and inventive mayhem. Directed by Samjad, the story centers on invulnerable twins Ethan and Ivy, who pursue a gang of thieves responsible for their humiliation and attack. The film unfolds primarily on a desert roadway, detailing the twins' quest for revenge.

The narrative begins with a childhood prologue emphasizing the twins' bond, then jumps to their adult lives, hinting at their unique, light-sensitive hybrid nature. The antagonists are depicted as ruthless bandits who first murder an unsuspecting family before targeting Ethan and Ivy, driving off the road and sexually humiliating Ivy. Despite this assault, the twins survive, setting the stage for a saga of unsparing reprisals.

The action choreography, by Very Tri Yulisman, is a highlight, featuring visceral scenes like bare-hand scalpings and gruesome encounters. The film also touches on socio-political themes, notably echoing a real-life Indian news story about sexual violence to fuel the drama. However, the narrative occasionally falters, with the twins' characters lacking depth beyond their suffering.

Despite a brief 96-minute runtime, "Half" faces criticism for repetitive action sequences and sidelining Ivy's character. Nevertheless, its unique blend of martial arts-inspired horror, action, and road movie elements, coupled with striking practical effects, makes it a distinctive entry in Indian cinema. "Half" premiered at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival and is currently seeking U.S. distribution.