- Devika Ayyappa
Midsommar (2019) by Ari Aster
Midsommar is a beautifully put-together folk horror film directed by Ari Aster (Hereditary, 2018) starring Florence Pugh, Jack Reynor, and others.
The film follows college students Dani (Florence Pugh) and Christian (Jack Reynor) on their trip to Sweden for a covert summer festival that occurs once every 90 years.
Dani goes through a period of grief post a tragedy, and this strains her already estranged relationship with Christian. Hoping to find a break from all this, she accompanies her boyfriend and his friends on the trip to Sweden. As the story progresses, the group witnesses a strange sequence of events they weren't prepared for. Eventually, they find themselves in the hands of a community that has more in store for them than just a fun summer festival.
The visuals throughout the film followed by the camera work are truly commendable. All the actors have delivered great performances while Florence Pugh shines throughout. Every event that unfolds has a deeper metaphorical meaning; the concept of life and death portrayed through the eyes of this community is fascinating. Aster has successfully carried out another horror with utmost artistry. However, it can be a little explicit for some, but the beauty of it all will truly amaze you.