In Flames

In Flames enters one of the most frightening territories of cinema which is the human psyche. As it is the work of an emerging director of sorts, the film revolves around a specific character, Alina (here played by Florence Pugh) and the chain of unsettling images and strange occurrences that befall her after she moves into her late mother’s house. In the process of exploring her family’s roots and knowing more about her ancestors, Alina finds out some historical information about it including her ancestry’s relation to witchcraft. The illusions begin to overpower and become the only way of escaping from Alina’s mind with her zealous fight to hold onto her sanity, affirmative of the visions but terrified of the dark forces lingering around her. Cast: Alina Tribute Alina: Florence Pugh Dr. Lucas: Michael Fassbender: Dr. Lucas is a psychiatrist Toni Collette as Alina’s mom (flashbacks) Positive Aspects: Florence Pugh Performance: One of the best performances of Pugh has to be in this film as Alina who slowly goes through the emotional breakdown of her character. Atmospheric Horror: The movie is successful in creating a very palpable sense of tension through a tight, creepy, and sad atmosphere which is further enhanced by the cinematography and style elements schilling the psychological horror. Unique Storyline: The combination of family dramas, mental illness and paranormal activities is a refreshing deviation from usual horror stunts. Negative Aspects: Ambiguous Ending: Some viewers might prefer titles with a concrete end and might be apprehensive about the closure as it’s quite open for too many plottits. Slow Build: The pacing can be said to be rather slow especially in the first half and which is not advisable to those who want quick scares or actions.