The Dreadful: A Review of Natasha Kermani's Horror Film

"The Dreadful," directed by Natasha Kermani, is a horror film set in 15th-century England, loosely inspired by the 1964 Japanese classic "Onibaba." The story follows Anne, portrayed by Sophie Turner, who struggles with poverty while caring for her domineering mother-in-law, Morwen, played by Marcia Gay Harden. The narrative unfolds as Anne's husband, Seamus, is reported dead after fighting in the War of the Roses, leading to a romantic entanglement with her childhood friend, Jago (Kit Harington). Morwen's violent tendencies emerge as she resorts to murder to protect her interests, particularly against men of the cloth.

Hollywood Reporter

The film explores themes of desperation and survival, with Morwen's character embodying the extremes one might resort to when faced with hunger and poverty. Critics note that while the film attempts to address serious themes, it often falls into silliness, particularly with its portrayal of Morwen as both a menacing figure and a source of dark humor. The presence of a mysterious knight adds an ominous layer, though it is described as a thin motif that fails to deliver genuine fright.

New York Times

Critics have expressed mixed feelings about "The Dreadful." While Marcia Gay Harden's performance is highlighted as a standout, the film's pacing and narrative coherence have been criticized. The slow burn approach is seen as ineffective, leading to a lack of engagement. The film's attempt to incorporate supernatural elements in its final act has also been deemed underwhelming, with some reviewers calling for a moratorium on clichés such as dream sequences.

Hollywood Reporter

Natasha Kermani, the film's writer and director, has previously demonstrated her capabilities in the horror genre with works like "Lucky" and "Abraham’s Boys." However, critics suggest that "The Dreadful" does not match the eerie brilliance of its Japanese inspiration. The casting choices, particularly that of Turner, have been questioned, as her youthful appearance contrasts sharply with the film's grim setting.

Hollywood Reporter

Some reviewers argue that the film's execution fails to resonate with its intended themes. The chemistry between Turner and Harington has been described as lacking, which detracts from the emotional stakes of their romance. Additionally, the film's reliance on atmospheric elements over substantive horror has led to perceptions of it being tedious rather than thrilling.

Hollywood Reporter

• “The Dreadful is the sort of film that prides itself on being a slow burn but ultimately more resembles a fizzle.” — Hollywood Reporter

Hollywood Reporter

• “She is characterized by a puckering menace that is almost comical, but her disposition is all we have to explain how she is a coldblooded killer, murdering visitors to steal from them in desperate times.” — New York Times

New York Times

• “The knight might represent the contagion of human evil, and Anne’s story a journey of proto-feminism, but for all its big themes, the most resonant is the film’s title.” — New York Times

New York Times

In summary, "The Dreadful" presents an intriguing premise but struggles with execution, leaving audiences divided on its effectiveness as a horror film.

Hollywood Reporter