Bring Her Back – Film Review

Directors – Danny Philippou, Michael Philippou
Writers – Danny Philippou, Bill Hinzman
Stars – Billy Barratt, Sally Hawkins, Mischa Heywood

Andy (Billy Barratt) and Piper (Sora Wong) are half-brothers and sister. When their father unexpectedly dies, they are left without a guardian. They find a new home with a foster parent, Laura (Sally Hawkins). Laura has recently lost her daughter, who drowned in their swimming pool. Piper is about the same age as her daughter and is also partially sighted. Laura is already looking after an emotionally damaged young boy called Oliver (Jonah Wren Phillips).  Laura seems to be a gentle and caring woman, but appearances can be deceiving.

This is a new feature by directors Danny and Michael Philippou. The pair are twin brothers from Australia. They initially made their breakthrough with their RackaRacka YouTube channel, with a series of horror comedy videos. Their first feature-length film, ‘Talk to Me’, was released in 2022 and was a huge success, taking $92.2 million at the box office from a budget of only $4.5 million.

The most unusual thing about this film is how dark it is. The filmmakers have a history in horror comedy, and Talk to Me had moments of levity. This film is very serious in tone, without much to break the tension. There are also very few jump scares or other typical horror devices, just a constant sense of dread. The premise is well constructed, and Sally Hawkins is brilliant in her role as the emotionally brittle Laura. It’s quite a step away from her role as Mrs Brown in Paddington, and you’re never sure when she is about to explode. It is a difficult watch and won’t be for everyone, but it is a stylish film, well-acted, and quite innovative. It’s not aimed at a teen audience like so many of its competitors, but that comes at a cost, as you’re stuck inside this ghoulish world with the protagonists.