Real Women of Gaming

Addiction is a horrible and wild thing to experience. Everyone has their own reasons for seeking that feeling. That high that “fixes” everything for a little while. It never lasts though. What does last are the ripples that touch everyone else. A lot of films have tried different ways to show addition and the damage it causes. I never thought that this horror movie would have such a great representation of it, as well as such a different take on a possession story but to my surprise, it does.

A24 is a film and production company that has been churning out amazing stories. The studio is also proof that you can pay your talent what they deserve and still be successful. One of the newest movies to come out of the studio is called Talk to Me. Released in 2022 the film was a huge hit with horror audiences. This is not surprising with a creative story, a great cast and a soundtrack full of bangers. 

Mia is a teenager with a lot on her shoulders. She has recently lost her mother and is dealing with the depression and the isolation that comes with such a loss. She does have a support system though, her best friend’s family has become a safe place for her to process. Mia does still have her father but their relationship is rocky at best despite him trying to fix it. One night at a party Mia takes a chance to show her classmates that she is still one of them. Mia takes part in a ritual to let a spirit in while the rest of the students record. What starts off as a scary experience becomes a feeling that she will chase for most of the film. 

Unfortunately Mia is in a vulnerable place to be taking part in such a ritual. Her mental health is not at its strongest point and she admits to feeling very alone. When she takes hold of the hand she is able to sit in the passenger seat for the duration of the ritual. It also seems to gain her some more friends. However these friends are only around when they are performing the ritual. Everything they talk about and the only reason to be together is to “play,” which often happens in groups who share an addiction. Anyone who has seen a possession movie before can see Mia is a perfect person to be at risk of possession by a malevolent entity. 

Unfortunately things take an even more dangerous turn one night. This also leaves Mia even more at risk. Can she undo the damage done by the ritual before it is too late? 

This movie is so well shot. The use of negative space and camera angles to cause unease is brilliant. We all know I am a sucker for practical effects during a movie. Mia is a great protagonist that you really root for throughout the film. The music pairs perfectly with the story being told. 

Would I recommend Talk to Me? Yes. I would 100% tell horror fans to watch this movie. I would warn that if you have a difficult time with possession movies this one will stick with you. I will not lie to you all, I didn’t sleep well after watching it. 

If you are looking for a creative and scary film then give this one a shot. Talk to Me takes chances that pay off to scare its audience. Even the hardened horror fans I watched it with were surprised and jumped at parts. 

So if you are looking for a good scare go give this one a watch. 

ALWAYS KEEP SPARKLING!!!