My quick rating - 5.2/10. I bet there were some good ideas buried below the interesting visuals. The problem is they never made it to the surface so instead you are left with a good-looking yet slow-as-hell druid-inspired flick. Veronica Ghent, who after a double mastectomy, goes to a healing retreat in rural Scotland with her young nurse Desi. She discovers that the process of such surgery opens up questions about her very existence, leading her to start to question and confront past traumas. The two develop an unlikely bond as mysterious forces give Veronica the power to enact revenge within her dreams. The flick presents itself as a visually captivating exploration of trauma, identity, and revenge, but ultimately falls short of fully realizing its potential. Directed by Charlotte Colbert, the film follows Ghent, portrayed with depth and nuance by the talented Alice Krige, as she plods her way through this slow, vengeful tale. From the outset, it impresses with its striking visuals and atmospheric cinematography, transporting you to the hauntingly beautiful landscapes of the Scottish countryside. The lush scenery is a fitting backdrop for Veronica's journey of self-discovery, imbuing the film with a sense of ethereal beauty and otherworldly mystique. However, beneath its arresting visuals lies a narrative that struggles to find its footing. Despite the intriguing premise of Veronica gaining the power to enact revenge within her dreams, the film's pacing is sluggish, with long stretches of meandering exposition that detract from the overall momentum. As a result, the thematic threads of trauma and empowerment feel underdeveloped and lacking in impact. The central relationship between Veronica and her young nurse Desi (Kota Eberhardt), portrayed with warmth and sincerity, offers a glimmer of promise amidst the film's shortcomings. Their unlikely bond serves as a catalyst for Veronica's journey of self-discovery, providing moments of genuine emotion and connection that resonate with those watching a bit more than it did with me. One of the film's strengths lies in its exploration of the physical and emotional toll of Veronica's mastectomy, shedding light on the complexities of womanhood and identity in the face of adversity. However, these themes are overshadowed by the film's disjointed storytelling and lack of narrative focus. This flick boasts strong performances and moments of genuine emotion, but its slow pacing and narrative inconsistencies prevent it from fully engaging me or leaving a lasting impact. While it may resonate more with audiences who can relate to Veronica's experiences, it ultimately falls short of its potential as a thought-provoking exploration of trauma and empowerment.
