Brutal Scenes of New Horror Film Shock Viewers
A newly released horror movie is stirring up intense reactions, leaving cinema-goers feeling queasy with its graphic and intense sequences.
Horror films have been a mainstay for film enthusiasts, but the interest in this genre seems to be increasing. One movie that’s gained significant attention recently is “The Substance,” making waves in the body horror sub-genre.
The latest horror release, however, is provoking exceptionally strong responses, with some scenes so intense that they reportedly cause people to become physically ill. Credit: Mer Film Lava Films
Impressively, this horror masterpiece has been rated 96% on Rotten Tomatoes and holds a score of 7.9/10 on IMDb, showcasing its unique impact on audiences.
Reviews from critics have praised the particular style and themes. Robert Kojder from Flickering Myth describes it as “simultaneously gross and emotionally devastating,” noting its painful exploration of beauty and horrors.
Mae Abdulbaki from Screen Rant highlighted the film’s sharp commentary on manufactured beauty, while Jon Negroni from In Between Drafts exclaimed at the outstanding work of the special effects team, suggesting their outstanding contributions deserve accolades.
Chase Hutchinson from The Wrap conveyed how the film’s craft effectively unsettles viewers, sinking deeply into the story with grim persistence, likening it to an invasive presence.
Created by Norwegian filmmaker Emilie Blichfeldt, this movie marks her entry into feature films, bringing a chilling twist to the classic Cinderella tale.
In this story, we follow Elvira, portrayed by Lea Myren, who undergoes drastic changes in her quest for flawlessness. Alongside Myren, the cast includes Flo Fagerli, Isac Calmroth, Malte Gårdinger, Ralph Carlsson, and Willy Ramnek Petri.
During a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, Blichfeldt shared her inspiration drawn from the Brothers Grimm, known for their darker take on folk tales compared to the lighter Disney renditions.
This Norwegian film adds to the body horror genre, a concept pioneering director David Cronenberg explored in famed projects like “Crash” and “The Fly.” His work significantly influenced Blichfeldt’s approach. Credit: Mer Film Lava Films
Blichfeldt admitted, “I’ve never been one for horror, but the allure of body horror captivated me. Cronenberg’s unique storytelling highlighted real human bodies and their complexities, resonating deeply with my themes.”
She further explained that body horror films often embody rich metaphors and are filled with profound philosophical ideas, making them not only horrific but also deeply meaningful.
Called “The Ugly Stepsister” or “Den stygge stesøsteren” in Norwegian, the movie premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. Known for its hard-to-stomach content, the film features graphic depictions of surgeries and even the disturbing consumption of tapeworms.
Reports from Variety noted a moment during its premiere screening when an attendee was physically sick after one demanding scene.
The movie’s anticipated release is March 7, 2025, in Norway, followed by availability on the streaming service Shudder in the UK, US, Australia, and New Zealand.
Although “The Ugly Stepsister” may not be for everyone due to its intense scenes, it is keenly awaited by fans of the genre, as it promises a fresh and provocative interpretation of classic tales while pushing the boundaries of horror cinema.
