It has been a couple of weeks since I saw Midsommar. Since then, it has been whirring away in my head, quietly reminding me that it is not time to forget the array of disturbing images on display. Anyone who has heard anything about the movie at this stage will know that it has been often compared to The Wicker Man (not the rubbish Nicholas Cage one). To be fair, the comparisons are not unfounded but this goes to more extreme and darker places than that film.

The basic plot is about Dani (Florence Pugh) who after suffering a heart-wrenching tragedy in the film’s opening, finds herself trapped in an unloving relationship with Christian (Jack Reynor). As a result, the couple and Christian’s friends (who are outraged that Dani is invited) decide that a trip to a hippy commune in Sweden will be the ideal environment to relax in. Of course, things get progressively darker from there and to talk any more about the plot would spoil it.

The highlight is Pugh’s performance as she shows Dani’s inner life throughout as a character who is constantly on the verge of a mental breakdown. This is aided by Ari Aster’s direction who after Hereditary, has proven himself to be an expert at grabbing the audience by the neck and not letting go. This is even more effective considering that most of the movie takes place in daylight, unlike Hereditary. 

I personally don’t think this is a horror as there is way more going on here than what is initially implied. Aster has gone on record many times to say that this is a breakup movie and I definitely think that this is the case. However, it goes to places that most break ups generally tend not to (though I’m no expert). This isn’t for everyone, but if the idea of The Wicker Man taken to the extreme appeals to you, then it is worth checking out.

Disclaimer Notice: Any thoughts and opinions expressed here are solely my own. Any images (copyrighted or otherwise) have been used according to Creative Commons and if needed, have been referenced to the best of my knowledge.

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