Affection is gripping, physically uncomfortable, and engrossing as it builds to its climax with a twist.
Affection is a sci-fi horror that builds up a mystery and tension. Viewers, like the heroine, wonder what is happening and who to trust, or if the heroine herself is unreliable. The stakes are present; the reveal and visuals are effectively creepy, and the concept of love and loss is a fitting one. Affection is gripping, physically uncomfortable, and engrossing as it builds to its climax with a twist.
Written and directed by BT Meza, the film tells the story of Ellie, played by Jessica Rothe (Happy Death Day, Boy Kills World), who awakens to find a husband and daughter she does not recognize. The film is a tight science fiction flick and holds the viewer’s attention with its minimal cast. Aside from Rothe, Joseph Cross (Licorice Pizza, Mank) plays her husband, and Julianna Layne (Finding Christmas, Kinda Pregnant) plays her young daughter. Through keen attention to balancing mystery, discomfort, and connection, Affection keeps a near-perfect pace from start to finish.
Strong Performances With Rothe Leading It
Jessica Rothe, especially, gives an outstanding performance. Her physicality for the role makes her experiences and situation even more believable. The last time I remember a physical performance that was so unnerving was for The Exorcism of Emily Rose. It causes you to shrink in discomfort and horror as she struggles with seizures.
Joseph Cross, as her helpful husband, strikes a balance between “is he or isn’t he” lying. There’s a genuine affection in their interactions, yet, like Ellie, viewers are left suspicious. Julianna Layne portrays an innocent, confused daughter, but often falls by the wayside. Her character feels innocent yet shallow. With more revelations, you sympathize with her but also do not know her.
Affection Questions Love Versus Obsession
The question of how far one is willing to go for love is a familiar refrain. After all, when it’s true, you should go all out. Right? But how far is too far, and what do you lose? To reclaim what’s lost is one thing. However, Affection shows a toll that’s costlier for everyone when it comes with rejection of anything else. Through the film, audiences see what a simple answer of “I’d do anything for the one I love” looks like, and it’s downright horrifying.
There are issues of consent, similar to 2013’s The Host, and a love that becomes tainted, or perhaps always was, when nothing and no one else holds value. It also brings up the question of how well we know those around us. The psychological toll suggests it might not be the same loved one you return to because of everything it took to get there.
The science fiction aspect looks almost old-school analog. It’s like hackers meet science fiction. Affection balances the looming question that Ellie’s dealing with, while building up snippets of dread and terror with each scene. Through the performances, it maintains a tense atmosphere and does not overstay its welcome. Affection is a prime example of how to do more with less, weaving a chilling yet mysterious story that does not drag.
