Hanna Einbinder plays a promising new director who’s hired to make yet another sequel to a horror franchise. She decides to contact the original film’s ‘final girl’ (Gillian Anderson) who’s been leading a reclusive life. The last project from writer/director Jane Schoenbrun was “I Saw the TV Glow” and I didn’t love it (my review). Apparently, their sensibilities don’t line up with what I like, because I found this difficult to appreciate…at least for the first slow-moving hour. When things go off the rails and start to subvert expectations, the film becomes more interesting, even challenging. Sure, it’s a genre exercise with an extended discussion of sexual identity, but the convo is often heavy-handed. Einbinder extends her comedy range from “Hacks” with impressively dramatic results. Anderson, who’s ironically channeling Dolly Parton with her voice and deep Southern accent, chews all over the scenery. There’s a level of absurdity and satire, but even when things get bloody, it’s always arty and kinda funny. Getting past the self-indulgent dialogue, there’s an enigmatic angle that’s part of this director’s unique style and vision, making this film an unusual examination that’s confusing, bizarre and intriguing. NOTE: You can stay thru the credits for one final random scene. 2.5 out of 5.0 stars
