Howl (2021)

Review Team

4/5

Howl, directed by Michele Martin, presents a hauntingly intimate portrait of a young woman grappling with her fractured psyche. The film opens with its protagonist leaving a sanitarium, a moment that sets the tone for her journey into the depths of madness. Martin's direction is commendable, skillfu ... Show more >> Howl, directed by Michele Martin, presents a hauntingly intimate portrait of a young woman grappling with her fractured psyche. The film opens with its protagonist leaving a sanitarium, a moment that sets the tone for her journey into the depths of madness. Martin's direction is commendable, skillfully blending psychological horror with emotional depth. The cinematography is striking, utilising shadow and light to reflect the inner turmoil of the lead character. The performances are particularly noteworthy, with the lead delivering a raw and vulnerable portrayal that captures the audience's empathy. While the pacing may feel slow at times, it serves to build tension and draw viewers into the protagonist's world. Howl is not merely a horror film; it’s a profound exploration of identity and acceptance, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Howl is a film that tries to juggle horror and psychological exploration, but it sometimes stumbles in execution. The story of a young woman spiralling into madness holds promise, yet it often feels like it drags on without enough payoff. The atmosphere is undeniably eerie, and the visuals certainly ... Show more >> Howl is a film that tries to juggle horror and psychological exploration, but it sometimes stumbles in execution. The story of a young woman spiralling into madness holds promise, yet it often feels like it drags on without enough payoff. The atmosphere is undeniably eerie, and the visuals certainly contribute to the unsettling vibe, but the pacing can test your patience. The lead actress gives a commendable performance, capturing the essence of her character's struggle, but the script lacks the punch needed to make the emotional moments resonate fully. While there are intriguing themes about identity and self-acceptance, they sometimes get lost in the film's slow unfolding. Overall, Howl has its moments, but it might not satisfy everyone looking for a tightly woven horror narrative. Show less