Romance, secrets, and cultural mysticism? Yes, please!
When you ask someone if they want to watch a horror movie, the first thing that may come to their mind is gore, blood, and plenty of jump scares. But horror films can be just as terrifying without all of that. Instead, through the use of an unsettling atmosphere, a film can still create a strong sense of unease. This is true for Danish writer/director Gabriel Bier Gislason’s debut feature film, Attachment, which originally premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival. By keeping things simple, he’s able to incrementally turn up the suspense with a well-written story that starts as a little romantic but gradually transforms into something much darker.
Maja (Josephine Park) is a washed-up Danish actress doing small appearances at local libraries and shopping malls to make some money. While running late for a library appearance, she collides with Leah (Ellie Kendrick), a Jewish student from London. That evening, the two get together for tea and conversation which ultimately ends in a night of passion. Not ready to give up on this new love, Leah postpones her return home. During her extension in Denmark, Leah suffers a terrible seizure. A terrified Maja tries to hold onto Leah, which causes injury to her leg. Joking that her Hasidic Jewish mother would say this is a sign from God to return home, Leah reluctantly decides to head back to her community in Stamford Hill, London, and Maja goes with her.
Their romance is quickly interrupted by Chana (Sofie Gråbøl), Leah’s overbearing mother, who happens to live downstairs. Taking over the reins in her daughter’s recovery, Chana quickly pushes Maja aside. In an attempt to earn Chana’s respect and gain some insight into her culture, Maja visits a bookstore. She meets Lev (David Dencik), who happens to be Leah’s uncle. Uncle Lev tries to help Maja by introducing her to Jewish mysticism and explaining the significance of certain items and practices. As Maja learns more about the traditions and superstitions of Leah’s family, she begins to notice strange occurrences and wonder if something more sinister is stirring.
I don’t want to say too much more about the plot. It would be unfair to rob you of the journey that Gislason has prepared for the audience. However, Attachment is more than a sinister tale. It also shows the complexities of romantic and familial relationships and the damage of secrets. Everyone loves Leah — Maja, Chana, and Uncle Lev. Because of their love for her, conflict arises, ultimately affecting Leah and shining a light on the mutual codependency of Leah and those around her.
Like Maja, the audience is the newcomer to this family and community. As you watch, you learn with Maja. And the more you learn, the more uncomfortable you become. Evenly paced, Attachment grows with suspicion, raising the hairs on your neck without typical horror theatrics. This makes for a compelling viewing experience as Gislason skillfully transfers the tension from the screen to the audience, creating a more immersive experience. You need to know and understand what’s going on; you have to make it to the end.
Attachment is a lesson in great storytelling. Gislason weaves a story that proves that sometimes the most understated narratives can leave the greatest impression. With a well-written script and outstanding performances, he’s able to make this modest film feel bigger and the looming darkness heavier. Attachment is proof that sometimes, even in horror, less is more. You can see for yourself when it hits Shudder.
Attachment streams exclusively on Shudder on February 9.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
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