The Perfection: a brief review to understand this horror gem

The Perfection is a horror movie that generated great controversy in the mass media due to its twisted plot and extremely controversial ending.

The following is a brief explanation of this macabre story that became a genre gem.

The Perfection is a psychological horror thriller released in 2018, directed by Richard Shepard. The film presents a gripping narrative that weaves together themes of vengeance, trauma, and the darker aspects of artistic ambition. It features Allison Williams in the role of Charlotte Willmore and Logan Browning as Lizzie Wells, both of whom are accomplished cellists haunted by a shared history.

## Plot Overview

The narrative centers on Charlotte, who returns to the esteemed Bachoff Academy of Music after spending a decade caring for her ailing mother. Upon her arrival, she encounters Lizzie, the academy's top student who has assumed her former position. What begins as a seemingly innocent friendship between the two women rapidly evolves into a complex tale filled with unexpected twists and elements of body horror. The story unfolds in four distinct chapters, each revealing deeper layers of manipulation and revenge, ultimately leading to a startling conclusion that uncovers the predatory nature of their mentor, Anton, who exploits his students.

## Themes and Reception

The Perfection addresses critical issues such as sexual abuse and the intense pressures associated with achieving excellence in the arts. The film's examination of these themes has ignited considerable discussion among critics and viewers alike. Some interpret it as a daring critique of the #MeToo movement and the systemic abuses prevalent in elite institutions, while others have expressed concerns regarding its depiction of violence and perceived misogynistic undertones.

Critics have highlighted the film's stylistic influences, drawing parallels to the works of Brian De Palma and South Korean cinema, particularly in its employment of shocking plot developments and psychological suspense. The film has garnered mixed reviews, achieving a 71% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with some lauding its captivating narrative and performances, while others found its content to be excessive and unsettling.

## Inspiration

Richard Shepard was motivated to explore the horror genre with *The Perfection* after viewing the Netflix docuseries *The Keepers*, which delved into the complexities of abuse.

##Critical Reception

Critics had varying opinions on the film's conclusion. Some commended the daring twists and their connection to themes of empowerment and retribution against sexual abuse, especially within the #MeToo movement. The film's ability to merge horror with profound social commentary was lauded as a notable accomplishment, drawing parallels to other films in the "elevated horror" category that address real-world issues while still providing entertainment.

##Audience reactions

Many audience members were left in stunned silence during the film's climax, particularly at the shocking ending where Charlotte and Lizzie seek vengeance against their abuser, Anton. Director Richard Shepard observed that this silence was not a sign of disappointment but rather a moment for contemplation, as viewers absorbed the film's intense and unexpected plot twists. Post-screening, viewers expressed a desire to revisit the film to fully grasp its intricate storyline and underlying messages, indicating that the twist had a lasting impact on them.

##The end

Critics lauded the daring nature of the twist and its connection to the film's themes of empowerment, revenge, and the battle against sexual abuse within the #MeToo movement. The unexpected turn was viewed as the culmination of the movie's examination of weighty topics such as trauma, mental health, and the misuse of authority, all within the framework of a suspenseful thriller.

Nevertheless, they critiqued the twist's explicit content and extreme plot twists as excessive, raising doubts about its effectiveness in advancing the storyline or if it took away from it. The film's capacity to elicit strong responses, whether positive or negative, underscored its ambition in delivering a startling, conversation-provoking finale to its twisted narrative of fixation.

##Final thoughts

The Perfection emerges as a thought-provoking addition to the horror genre, blending elements of psychological thriller and body horror with a narrative that critiques the pursuit of artistic excellence at the expense of personal integrity and safety. Its divisive reception mirrors the complexities of its themes and the visceral nature of its storytelling.