Internally, from trusted sources, I’m hearing more mixed takes about Danny and Michael Philippou’s “Bring Her Back,” which is coming to us via A24. I still very much look forward to seeing the film as I was totally onboard their last film, “Talk to Her.”
Externally, it’s a whole other story. The usual praise that comes with early reactions is in full effect when it comes to “Bring Her Back.” I’ve only found a single negative reaction. It should be mentioned that most of these tweets are coming from “critics” I’m not that familiar with, so as always, take it with a huge grain of salt.
Two-time Oscar nominee Sally Hawkins stars in “Bring Her Back,” which wrapped production last July. The film also stars Billy Barratt, Sora Wong and Jonah Wren Phillips.
The story details involve a brother and sister who uncover a horrifying ritual in their foster mother’s home. The teaser hints at found footage from an old camera, and Hawkins putting her bloody hand upon a window.
The Philippou’s are coming off their visionary debut, “Talk to Me,” which was praised by numerous filmmakers, including Steven Spielberg, Jordan Peele, George Miller, Ari Aster, and Peter Jackson. The hype was warranted. “Talk to Me” completely subverted the clichés of the horror genre. Yes, there were some first-timer mistakes here and there, but these boys seem to have vision to spare.
The Philippous were known as the YouTube duo RackaRacka, where they produced horror videos with a comedic twist. I never heard of them until “Talk To Me,” it sounds like they’re here to stay. They are currently developing a “Talk to Me” sequel for A24 and a documentary project inspired by their own journey into the world of international underground deathmatch wrestling.
“Bring Her Back” will be released in theaters on May 30.
