Monstrous

Once one figures out what is going on in this movie, it actually is interesting. Much more of a psychological thriller than an actual horror movie.

For the most part this is a captivating mood piece, held together by Ricci’s take on a woman who is chasing an impossible idyll while being trailed by something dark and murky.

An exercise in tedium which checks the barest boxes of “completed movie”...

Offers a strong premise and some fresh twists, particularly in a genre where gimmicky filmmaking has prevailed.

The dissociative identity disorder of 1950s American culture is exploited to disturbing and amusing effect in Monstrous, an uneven but likable horror film with one of the better plot twists in recent memory.

Ricci’s compelling performance, with essential support from director Chris Sivertson ... makes you want to follow Laura as she inevitably falls apart.

Monstrous loses its way in the second act and doesn’t bother to pick itself up again until the story comes to an end as Siverton chooses to focus on the central characters more than the monster.

The inertly told story piles on to Laura’s torments as if checking off a to-do list: a hostile landlady, a monotonous clerical job and an abusive ex.

If you view movies as shock delivery systems, this isn’t the most successful example, but if you want a well-told story that makes you feel something, Monstrous delivers.

This psychological twister doesn't entirely succeed, but it's anchored by a haunting lead performance from Ricci.