Possessor Review

The twisted take on body-snatching and the cold brutality throughout the new film Possessor by writer/director Brandon Cronenberg, son of iconic horror creator David Cronenberg, proves that the mutilated apple doesn't fall far from the grotesque tree. Stylistic and ambitious, Possessor fuses powerful practical effects with bizarre themes that result in an inconsistent yet unusually gripping piece of sci-fi horror. Though the film is always in a volatile state, sometimes the atmosphere and tone that Cronenburg attempts to form feels forced. Possessor finds its footing at the midway point but still seems too dependent on its creative editing and visceral visuals to produce a memorable narrative.

Possessor tells the story of elite corporate assassin Tasya Vos. Using brain-implant technology, Vos takes control of other bodies to kill desired targets. However, as she slowly descends deeper into her newest assignment, Vos becomes confined inside a consciousness that attempts to annihilate her.

Although sufficiently brimming with strange and haunting moments, Possessor never feels excessive despite how certain gut-wrenching events unravel. The effects and atmosphere they help conjure are often the standout elements of the film. Yet, Possessor puts the viewer through a prolonged setup of irregular and trivial pursuits into mudded themes regarding the dangers of technology that don't always function as meticulously as intended.

Possessor suffers from a screenplay that lacks the complexity and attention present in Cronenberg's filmmaking. Imaginative but missing steady immersion, the significant events fragmented across the film's storytelling often feel vague and indecisively paced, enabling the film to exhibit a result that is style over substance.

Cronenberg's style of filmmaking adheres to characteristics similar to those of his father. Possessor proves to have the ability to clutch and appall but doesn't establish a solid enough narrative foundation to do so in a way that feels truly rewarding or lasting. Some may find more in the potential that exudes throughout, but Possessor ultimately stumbles due to its slow first half and absence of satisfying payoff.

The unique and gory visual flair of Possessor helps elevate the problems that arise from it's vague and jading narrative.

Produced By: Elevation Pictures
Runtime: 103 minutes
Rating: R