REVIEW: “Hold Your Breath” (2024)

As a seasoned viewer of films that delve into the human psyche and explore societal hardships, I found “Hold Your Breath” to be a captivating debut for directors Karrie Crouse and Will Joines. The film’s blend of historical accuracy and psychological horror was not only intriguing but also thought-provoking.

Karrie Crouse and Will Joines, the dynamic duo behind the camera, deliver compelling first attempts in feature films with “Hold Your Breath”. This psychological horror-thriller is uniquely set against the backdrop of the catastrophic Dust Bowl of the 1930s. A powerful portrayal by Sarah Paulson anchors the film, and it masterfully blends harrowing historical aspects with common horror genre elements to create a thought-provoking and well-crafted movie. Despite its grand ambitions, I admire its bold attempts.

1933 serves as the backdrop for the story, where Paulson portrays Margaret, a mother of two girls, trying to make ends meet in the parched Oklahoma panhandle. Their land, ravaged by dust, has rendered their farm useless. As a result, Margaret’s husband Henry (absent due to a job far away) seeks employment to send money home. With Henry gone, it is left to Margaret, her eldest daughter Rose (Amiah Miller), and her hearing-impaired youngest child, Ollie (Alona Jane Robbins), to survive with only an old cow, no crops, and no means of escaping their predicament.

Margaret deeply cherishes her daughters and tirelessly works to safeguard and support them. She’s also regarded as a pillar of strength in their small rural town. However, beneath this facade, she harbors personal struggles that trouble her. Since the loss of their first child to Scarlet Fever, Margaret has been plagued by recurring dreams. As their situation deteriorates, Margaret seems to be slipping away from the real world. Or is there something else at play – something ominous and menacing.

The central dilemma in “Hold Your Breath” (penned by Crouse) is a significant factor throughout the narrative, with complex layers unfolding in terms of plot, themes, and character psychology. The story is marked by recurring perils, some genuine and others seemingly so, such as ferocious sandstorms, health issues among children, potential famine, and the unexpected emergence of a preacher named Wallace (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), who presents himself as Henry’s acquaintance. All these elements contribute to an escalating feeling of unease that reaches its peak in a climactic act that is both gripping and emotionally wrenching.

The film’s strong point lies in its portrayal of the Dust Bowl era. To accurately depict the desolate landscapes of 1933 Oklahoma, Crouse and Joines filmed in several locations throughout New Mexico. They also made sure to effectively showcase the harsh conditions, creating dust storms that seem fierce enough to taste the grit and feel the sand stinging your eyes.

In this film, you’ll notice a keen focus on minute details – both major and minor aspects. This is evident in the exceptional costume and set designs. For instance, Margaret sealing their house with strips of fabric to keep out sand or the masks they wear outside, which are based on photos from the past. These elements collectively contribute to an authentic feel that intensifies as the movie delves deeper into psychological themes, particularly during its second half.

In terms of themes, “Hold Your Breath” carries a multitude of messages. It delves into aspects such as motherhood, sorrow, societal expectations, and loneliness, among others. These topics are not equally prominent, reflecting the characters’ overloaded minds. However, the film boasts several intense and unnerving scenes, often intensified by the haunting music of composer Colin Stetson. The powerful acting of Paulson and Miller imbues the movie with a poignant emotional impact. “Hold Your Breath” will premiere on Hulu on October 3rd.

2024-10-02 17:56

REVIEW: “Hold Your Breath” (2024)

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