Never Let Go (2024) is a psychological horror-thriller that plunges into the complexities of maternal love, survival, and the blurred line between reality and madness. Directed by Alexandre Aja, the film stars Halle Berry as June, a mother who embarks on a journey of survival after an ominous force threatens her family. The film combines elements of survival horror with psychological drama, offering a tense and emotional ride, but is not without its flaws.

The premise centers on June and her two sons, who retreat to a remote cabin, trying to escape an undefined, terrifying presence outside. As the danger escalates, June must make difficult choices to protect her family, but her actions seem to cross the boundaries of sanity, leading to a gripping psychological exploration of what one is willing to sacrifice for loved ones. Halle Berry gives a strong performance as June, portraying a mother’s fierce determination while conveying the growing instability in her character’s mindset. The emotional depth that she brings to her role is the film’s strongest ᴀsset, providing an anchor for the tension that unfolds.

The cinematography is one of the film’s standout aspects, with the secluded cabin and surrounding wilderness serving as the perfect backdrop to the isolation and fear felt by the characters. The use of lighting and shadow enhances the eerie atmosphere, making every corner seem like a potential danger. The tension builds slowly, as the audience is left to wonder whether the threat is real or merely a manifestation of June’s deteriorating mental state.

While the film excels at atmosphere and building suspense, it suffers from some pacing issues. The first half moves methodically, with slow-burning tension that keeps the audience engaged. However, in the latter half, the narrative begins to lose its grip, as the plot becomes somewhat disjointed and predictable. The horror elements, while effective in moments, are at times overshadowed by a narrative that could have been тιԍнтer and more coherent. Some critics have noted that the film leans on familiar horror tropes, which might feel underwhelming for those seeking a fresh take on the genre.

Despite these shortcomings, Never Let Go remains a chilling psychological thriller. The emotional stakes, particularly the relationship between June and her sons, are what truly set the film apart. It’s not just a battle against an unseen force, but also an internal struggle against fear, grief, and the lengths to which a mother will go to protect her children. Berry’s performance anchors this emotional core, making the film more than just a standard horror flick.

In conclusion, Never Let Go offers an atmospheric and emotionally charged experience, with strong performances and moments of tension that will captivate horror fans. However, the film falters in its pacing and some narrative choices, leaving a sense of unfulfilled potential. While it’s certainly worth a watch for those who enjoy psychological thrillers, it’s not quite the game-changer some may have hoped for.