There are outstanding, uncomfortable scenes; however, Starve Acre sometimes flounders with a shrouded plot that feels disconnected and obscure.
Starve Acre is a slow-burn horror film that loses itself occasionally in a story within a story that fails to make sense. By the climax, audiences remain confused. There is something worth discussing about parents who either resent the added responsibility of children who struggle with mental health or parents who ignore the signs. Additionally, there are outstanding, uncomfortable scenes. However, Starve Acre sometimes flounders with a shrouded plot that feels disconnected and obscure.
Directed and written by Daniel Kokotaljo and based on a story by Andrew Michael Hurley, the movie starts serene—with a dreamlike quality. That quality primarily exists throughout. Juliette, played by Morfydd Clark (Saint Maud, Crawl), sits by her son’s bed. Meanwhile, Owen, played by Arthur Shaw, talks of hearing whistling to his mom while dozing off. But what stands out in this scene is Juliette’s utter exhaustion. There’s sorrow and a sense that she’s reaching her limit. Starve Acre creates worry at the outset. In fact, it gives The Babadook in this moment.
Starve Acre Crafts Incredible Discomfort
One place Starve Acre excels is in uncomfortable, even prolonged silences. So, there is a tension where audiences scream, “What is happening?” It’s awkward, and the film does not shy away from those moments. At the start, the poem sets up a horrific yet wondrous tale that makes nature a yearning with an undergrowth of dread. Plsu, the score amplifies these emotional peaks and valleys, lulling in beauty before sounding dissonant.
Two Parent Views Conflicting
Starve Acre uses this moment to showcase the pair’s differing views about their child. Juliette basks in the tranquil day, relaxing against a tree. Her husband, Richard, played by Matt Smith (House of the Dragon, Last Night in Soho), rests in her lap. But their young son, Owen, shatters that tranquility after he stabs an animal in the eye. Juliette feels exhausted by the continued behavior and wants the doctors to assist. Meanwhile, Richard believes there’s nothing a little TLC won’t fix.
Starve Acre Doesn’t Lack for Cast
Performance-wise, Starve Acre has acting that complements the story. So, the cast understands their respective roles, leaning into little dialogue. Instead, they let their silence and expressions convey each scene’s emotional depth. Holding that maelstrom of emotions together is Morfydd Clark and Matt Smith. Their behavior, especially Clark’s, keeps a question mark hovering through most of the film.
A Confusing Story
Encircling the family is the story of Jack Grey, an entity that Owen says talks to him. Again, the danger feels stronger from nature and ties in with how Owen’s behavior worsened when they moved to this home. Unfortunately, the story of wood sprites and nature beings feels lacking, and Jack ultimately remains as mysterious as it did at the outset. In addition, the rabbit or hare is otherworldly, but there is no clarity about its role or how it impacts the characters.
Starve Acre winds up a cautionary tale where viewers remain unsure of what to defend against. While obscurity can build a compelling story, and the music and cast do phenomenal work, too much remains unknown for viewers to understand what happened. Starve Acre is worth a view for the cast and score alone. But do not expect to walk away with all the answers.
