Matriarch (2022)

Review Team

4/5

Matriarch, directed by Ben Steiner, is a psychological horror film that skillfully intertwines personal trauma with supernatural elements. The narrative follows a woman who, after an overdose, returns to her childhood home, only to confront both her past and a lurking malevolence. The film excels in ... Show more >> Matriarch, directed by Ben Steiner, is a psychological horror film that skillfully intertwines personal trauma with supernatural elements. The narrative follows a woman who, after an overdose, returns to her childhood home, only to confront both her past and a lurking malevolence. The film excels in its atmospheric tension, with haunting cinematography that captures the eerie isolation of the rural setting. The lead performance is particularly noteworthy, conveying vulnerability and strength as she grapples with her demons. Steiner’s direction is both evocative and restrained, allowing the horror to unfold organically rather than relying on jump scares. The exploration of familial relationships and the impact of unresolved trauma adds depth to the horror, making Matriarch not just a scare-fest, but a poignant examination of personal struggles. Overall, this film is a standout for horror enthusiasts looking for substance alongside scares. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Matriarch is a film that tries to blend personal drama with horror, but it stumbles in places. The premise is intriguing—a woman facing her past returns home, only to find there's something sinister waiting for her. While the mood is thick with tension, the pacing can feel slow, and some plot points ... Show more >> Matriarch is a film that tries to blend personal drama with horror, but it stumbles in places. The premise is intriguing—a woman facing her past returns home, only to find there's something sinister waiting for her. While the mood is thick with tension, the pacing can feel slow, and some plot points may leave viewers scratching their heads. The performances are solid, particularly the lead, who brings an authentic emotional weight to her character's struggles. However, the film's reliance on familiar horror tropes might not impress everyone. It's a mixed bag; there are moments of genuine creepiness, but there are also stretches where the story feels a bit drawn out. If you're a fan of character-driven horror, you might find something to appreciate here, but it may not be for everyone. Show less