By Ben Miller
Featuring a dynamic lead performance from Rebecca Hall, Andrew Semans' new film Resurrection will be a little too out there for some. Those who get on the film's wavelength, though, will be greatly rewarded.
Resurrection follows an unmarried woman named Margaret (Hall) who has an enviable life: a great job, a happy home life with her daughter, and a comfortable but casual relationship with a co-worker. But one day at a conference, Margaret notices someone who looks just like David (Tim Roth), a mysterious man from her past and she begins to unravel. It would be a shame to give any of the actual plot away, though, because of the unexpected diabolical directions the film takes. Let's just say that Margaret must confront her demons to protect her daughter from the horrors she has long suppressed...
I cannot state this enough: Rebecca Hall is remarkable. The choices she makes in this film are all perfect and singular to what she can do as an actress. Even something like deepening the pitch of her voice can be monumentally powerful in the moment. Hall also has a lengthy mid-film monologue that ranks among the best work she has ever done. She is able to ground Margaret in reality while also questioning her sanity; It's one of the essential performances of the year.
Roth, the other half of this horrific duet, is pure slime in a difficult role. His charisma is necessary to make this man believable, even when the story stretches believability. His evil banality is essential for the film to work and he pulls it off beautifully. Grace Kaufman, playing Hall's daughter, essentially plays the role of the innocent bystander, wondering what the hell is going on. In context, her worries are well-founded, but she can come across as grating.
Writer/director Andrew Semans has announced himself as a fresh new filmmaker and constantly keeps you on your toes. The film goes in such wildly different directions that it certainly won't bore you. Additionally, the film has a keen visual eye without trying too hard. Some of the haunting images from cinematographer Wyatt Garfield leap off the screen. Fans of white-knuckle psychological thrillers will be in for a treat. Go in as blind as possible and let Hall and the film mesmerize you. You definitely won't forget it. B+
Resurrection opens in theaters this Friday and will be available on VOD August 5th. In the fall it will stream on Shudder.