Saint Maud, horror on a second viewing
Horror films come in all flavors. Some viewers prefer psychological terrors, others gore and jump scares. For a film that fits somewhere in between, indie film Saint Maud suits the preferences of those who like to mix it up a bit. A debut piece from writer-director Rose Glass, Saint Maud satisfies audiences who like a little gore with their madness themes. And that would be someone like me!
Unreliable narrator or psychological breakdown?
The film builds slowly, showing us the titular character Maud as she begins her new job, a palliative caregiver to famed former dancer Kohl, portrayed by legend Jennifer Ehle. We slowly begin to realize something is not quite right with the zealously religious nurse Maud, played with barely-contained intensity by Morfydd Clark. Writer Glass paints a mosaic of former work drama and friendship awkwardness mixed with fanatical behaviors which all come together in a truly unsettling and gory climax. Maud has issues. And we are all along for a bumpy ride as she manically tries to work them out.
Soundtrack deep-submerge with Saint Maud
Saint Maud’s soundtrack is neither intrusive nor does it telegraph in a way that lets the audience know when a particularly tense scene is coming. The music works its way into the events unfolding until the viewer realizes he is holding his breath in focused anticipation. Glass weaves in a psychological angle that calls into question the reality of the film’s universe. Can you believe and rely on what you are seeing? Who knows! Rent this original horror film for a night in with someone you trust not to mind you holding their hand a little too tightly. But if you are one to roll with the weird, enjoy this played-straight horror ride with the lights out.
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