A mother confronts family fears in bleak drama Never Let Go

The film, directed by Alexandre Aja, features Halle Berry as a mother struggling to protect her two young sons in a bleak, postapocalyptic setting deep in the woods. The narrative unfolds as the mother battles her own psychological demons, believing in the presence of evil that threatens her family. Her methods, which include rituals and isolation, raise doubts in her son Nolan, who begins to question her sanity and the reality of their situation. As supplies dwindle, the tension escalates, revealing the mother's abusive behavior stemming from her psychosis. The film is characterized by its dark themes of isolation and family manipulation, drawing comparisons to other works that explore similar motifs. The script, however, is criticized for being overly verbose, detracting from the visual storytelling that could have enhanced the film's eerie atmosphere. The production design effectively creates a haunting environment, but the narrative's reliance on dialogue and exposition undermines the suspense. Despite its unsettling premise, the film struggles with inconsistencies in its visual rules and the nature of the terrifying visions experienced by the characters. The audience is left grappling with the metaphorical implications of the imagery, which may require a suspension of disbelief. The film's portrayal of child suffering and psychological horror is both bold and distressing, leading to a viewing experience that is often uncomfortable. Ultimately, the film's unapologetically dark tone and bleak narrative may resonate with some viewers, but it risks alienating others who seek a more traditional thriller experience. The combination of psychological horror and family drama creates a unique, albeit grim, cinematic experience that challenges conventional storytelling.