Revamped Horror: A Fresh Take on Australian Supernatural Thriller
When Discuss About with Me debuted in July 2022, it quickly cemented its place among the summer’s most talked-about horror sensations. The film captivated audiences with its provocative storytelling and visceral shocks, becoming a must-watch for horror enthusiasts seeking a thrill. Created by the young and innovative Philippou brothers, Danny and Michael, whose roots are firmly planted in YouTube content creation, the movie explores demonic possession through a modern lens-highlighting its viral appeal. With a modest budget of just over $4 million, the film astonishingly grossed approximately $92 million worldwide, underscoring its widespread popularity and cultural impact. Its success was driven by a blend of intense horror, sharp editing, and a compelling narrative that resonated with viewers craving both scares and substance.
A New Chapter in Australian Horror: Lift Her Abet
Building on their initial success, the Philippou duo returns with a film bearing a similar title but a markedly different tone. Lift Her Abet ventures into darker, more somber territory-an emotionally charged story that delves into grief, trauma, and the supernatural. The plot centers on two orphaned Australian siblings who find themselves in an isolated rural residence under the care of Laura, portrayed by Sally Hawkins. Laura is a grieving mother, mourning the loss of her young daughter, and harboring a disturbing obsession: to resurrect her deceased child through sinister means.
A Tale of Loss and Supernatural Despair
Unlike its predecessor’s high-energy shocks, Lift Her Abet emphasizes mood, atmosphere, and psychological depth. The film explores the fragile psyche of Laura and her influence over the children, Piper and Andy. The story raises questions about the boundaries of maternal love and the destructive power of unresolved grief. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are drawn into a haunting world where the line between reality and the supernatural blurs, creating a chilling experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
Stellar Performances and Unconventional Casting
Sally Hawkins, renowned for her roles in acclaimed films like The Shape of Water and Paddington, delivers a transformative performance that defies expectations. Her portrayal of Laura is a masterclass in subtlety-initially appearing as a gentle, nurturing figure, but gradually revealing a darker, more unstable core. This casting choice is a bold departure from Hawkins’s typically sunny roles, turning her into a complex, unsettling presence that anchors the film’s eerie atmosphere.
The film’s cast also features Sora Wong as Piper, a visually impaired girl who refuses to use a mobility aid, adding layers of vulnerability and resilience. Billy Barratt’s portrayal of Andy, a cautious and traumatized boy, provides a compelling counterpoint to Laura’s increasingly disturbing behavior. The inclusion of Jonah Wren Phillips as Ollie, Laura’s silent, almost zombie-like younger son, adds an unsettling visual element-his strange appearance and disturbing actions hint at a deeper, more sinister truth.
Atmosphere Over Explanation: A Deliberate Approach
Lift Her Abet adopts a storytelling style that favors mood and ambiguity over explicit exposition. The filmmakers intentionally leave gaps in the narrative, trusting viewers to piece together the clues-such as Laura’s secret occult rituals and Ollie’s unnatural behavior. The film’s slow-burning tension and restrained storytelling may frustrate some, but they serve to heighten the sense of dread and anticipation. Early on, subtle hints-like Ollie’s grotesque physical changes and unsettling gaze-foreshadow the horror lurking beneath the surface.
The Horror Within and Beyond
What truly sets Lift Her Abet apart is its exploration of the darker aspects of maternal obsession and supernatural evil. The film suggests that Laura’s rituals and occult practices are not random but part of a calculated plan to revive her lost child-an act that unleashes terrifying consequences. The film’s climax reveals Ollie’s true nature, with disturbing scenes of physical transformation and cannibalistic tendencies, emphasizing the horror’s visceral impact.
The Future of Horror: What’s Next?
As the summer horror season approaches, audiences can look forward to a lineup of chilling releases such as Unpleasant Animals, 28 Years Later, M3GAN 2.0, and Weapons. Yet, Lift Her Abet deserves a special mention for its unique blend of emotional depth and supernatural terror. It’s a film that challenges conventional horror tropes, offering a more introspective and haunting experience that stays with viewers long after the credits roll.
In conclusion, Lift Her Abet stands as a compelling addition to the horror genre-an atmospheric, thought-provoking film that redefines what a supernatural thriller can be. Its focus on mood, nuanced performances, and unsettling themes make it a must-watch for those seeking a more profound and disturbing horror experience this summer.
