After the death of their father, two step siblings are sent to live with their foster mother and a mute little boy. At first, she seems like a nice person, but she has a deep dark secret. She’s a demonic practitioner who wants to bring her late daughter back. The Premise I’m referring to is none other than “Bring Her Back.” The second film by The Philippou Brothers/RackaRacka earned positive reviews from critics and movie goers alike. It was also a box office success.
Anyway, 2025 is almost over. I gotta watch a couple movies. See which ones deserve to be included in my editorial, “Top 12 Films of 2025.” I haven’t seen a lot of current movies lately. I’ve been watching a ton of shows like “Demon Slayer,” Tulsa King,” “Shangri-La Frontier” etc. Depending on a specific film available on a selected steaming service, I’ll have to delay plans on my editorial. So, bear with me folks. May take a while. By the way, A24’s “Marty Supreme” starring Timothée Chalamet, will be released this Christmas. Save your holiday money on this potential epic sports drama.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS whatsoever.
Lifted & Cursed Aspects
Lifted: Sally Hawkins did a superb job for her performance.
The Phillippou Brothers/RackaRacka (Talk to Me) both did a decent job co-directing. Their also co-wrote the script and served as co-producers.
Random Thought: I’m gonna come clean. I haven’t seen “Talk to Me.” Someday, I’ll give it watch. As long I don’t have nothing on my plate.
Scare Factor has some legit scares that gave me the heebie jeebies. Thank goodness Jump Scares weren’t present. I find Jump Scares annoying
Practical Effects were heavily involved to create brutal moments. Especially that one scene involving a knife. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart. If you have a weak stomach, be prepared. Grab a barf bag if you need to get it outta your system.
Cinematography’s shot in stable condition lacking technical issues throughout.
Laura’s chemistry with step siblings, Andy & Piper serves as the main highlight.
Pacing didn’t feel like a slow burn. I was hooked since the beginning.
Primary Themes are Grief, Pain & Loss. Each one’s handled carefully.
Without giving too much away, last scene didn’t feel like your typical Hollywood ending. A breath of fresh air.
Cursed: The movie lacks questions left unanswered regarding demonic mythos. I understand Laura’s troubled past, but it could’ve been an improvement if a flashback shows her participating as a practitioner in demonic possession.
The Final Verdict: A-
I’m probably going to Hell for this, from my Point of View, Bring Her Back is a better horror film than “Weapons” & Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein.” I think the latter two are unscary half-baked duds. Bring Her Back told an actual narrative, well-written characters and scary moments. If you haven’t seen Bring Her Back, it’s on HBO Max. Worth your spare time.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 