Midsommar
Ollie Cochran

Review by Ollie Cochran

Midsommar

2019
★★★★½ Liked

Watched 25 Aug 2020

A spectacular masterclass in balancing tones, Ari Aster's Midsommar manages to juggle an onslaught of various moods into one piece: (functioning as both a hilarious rom-com but also a deeply disturbing horror is a concept that Aster takes with absolute ease). There's some fucked up irony with the costume design and colours. The pureness and innocence of the white clothing - when coupled with the delightfully charming flowers, of course - make up an appealing scene, one that feels inviting and friendly. But no: it's a bloodbath of absolute horror and tension. Midsommar is an anxiety-ridden ride; even through the humour, the constantly unconventional atmosphere proved to be an effective way to both rivet and terrify. You're on the edge of your seat the whole time, unsure on who to trust and which way the plot will unravel. In technical ways, it's fantastic. The cinematography is excellent at sustaining the disturbing atmosphere. Overall production design is aptly constructed: the ubiquitous daylight is an unusual spin - albeit, straying away from most horror movie cliches is one of Midsommar's many strengths. Even then, it feels a little too long. Editing is fantastic throughout, but pacing is a touch too slow. Some scenes are dragged out far too long, yet I think the overall effect would have been heightened with one or two more scenes to flesh out Dani and Christian's relationship - granted, Pugh and the supporting cast are all brilliant. Overall, great stuff from Aster and definitely a force to be reckoned with in the horror movie field.

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