Anna Daniels
Let’s clarify something: horror trailers are everywhere. With their predictable jump scares, eerie kids, and flickering lights, Hollywood churns out these clichés as if stuck on a “haunted house” loop. However, the latest trailer for Bring Her Back? It’s a whole different story. Like a misguided séance, it pulls you in and won’t release its grip.
A24, the studio known for redefining “elevated horror,” is heavily promoting this film. With four trailers, endless snippets, and behind-the-scenes footage—if you haven’t seen Sally Hawkins’ haunting gaze, you must be living under a rock (or in a horror film basement). But here’s the twist: this isn’t merely another supernatural flick looking for a quick profit. The trailer suggests something much more profound, darker, and—even dare I say—personal.
Rituals, Grief, and the A24 Approach
“How did you deal with Cathy’s absence?
“I didn’t.”
This dialogue is the core of the trailer. It transcends ghost stories; it’s about grief manifesting as a weapon. The Philippou brothers, known for their viral hit Talk To Me, are returning and diving even deeper into the emotional horror that sparked their initial success. This time, the focus is on the intimate pain shared by a brother and sister, a foster mother hiding secrets, and a ritual that resembles less of a spell and more of a nightmarish family therapy session.
The trailer’s imagery embodies classic A24 vibes: moody, desaturated, and unsettlingly close. Sally Hawkins, exuding tension and quiet threat, stands at the film’s emotional center. She’s not just a foster mother; she’s the explosive emotional trigger of the narrative.
Ritual Horror and Its Unique Twist
Now, let’s broaden the perspective. Ritual horror isn’t a new concept. Films like Hereditary (2018) transformed family trauma into a cult sensation. The Ritual (2017) made treks in Sweden seem perilous. Even Talk To Me (2023) used possession as a metaphor for addiction and grief. So what’s novel about this one?
- Personal Investment: Rather than focusing on faceless cults, Bring Her Back pivots to the foster care system, revealing a real-world horror that many confront.
- Sally Hawkins: Her casting flips expectations. Rather than a typical horror lead, she’s an Oscar nominee, bringing depth to her role.
- Australian Authenticity: Filmed around Adelaide, the setting feels both familiar and disorienting, reminiscent of Picnic at Hanging Rock but on a surreal ride.
The marketing push by A24 isn’t merely for show—it serves as a signpost. They understand that this film may not appeal to everyone. It’s designed for horror enthusiasts seeking deeper existential fears.
The A24 Influence
Recall when The Witch (2015) split opinions? Or how Midsommar (2019) left you contemplating your summer plans? A24 consistently produces horror that stays with you—sometimes in an unsettling way. Bring Her Back follows that tradition, focusing more on emotional scars than the supernatural.
Would You Dare to Watch?
So, will Bring Her Back join the ranks of Talk To Me, or will it alienate casual viewers with its slow-burning ritual? Either way, A24’s trailer challenges you to find out.
Are you willing to take the chance to bring her back? Or will you keep the lights on and sleep with one eye open?
Share your thoughts below. If this trailer doesn’t sell you, check your pulse.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1I15ttCedfY[/embed>
