Compared to the first four reviews I have a pretty intense movie to bring to your attention today. The Medium (2021) psychological horror film directed by Thai filmmaker Banjong Pisanthanakun. The story is centered around a shaman named Nim, who is from a remote village in Thailand. The film follows a documentary-style format as it explores her spiritual and supernatural encounters, particularly with an evil spirit that possesses her niece, Mink.
Filmed in Loei province in northeastern Thailand (Isan), the movie uses a faux-documentary style to tell a story centered around faith, inheritance, illness, and curses. It gradually immerses the audience in a world of beliefs, superstitions, and traditions through an informative approach. According to Narilya Gulmongkolpech, certain elements of the film are inspired by true events.
The film topped the Korean box office on its opening day, drawing 129,917 viewers and surpassing the audience numbers of Black Widow (2021), yes the Marvel movie. By the fourth day of its release, it became the highest-grossing horror film, earning over US $2.67 million.
The film’s overseas box office success can be attributed to its strong execution, particularly in acting and cinematography. The lead actress delivers a powerful performance, capturing the emotional complexity of her character, while the supporting cast adds depth and authenticity. The film’s cinematography is also exceptional, using framing and lighting to build tension and immerse the audience in the story.
The imagery and brutality in The Medium are truly unnerving, adding an extra layer of discomfort to the already tense atmosphere. The film doesn’t shy away from graphic scenes, and its disturbing visuals are often hard to shake off. The shocking brutality amplifies the horror, making it not just a psychological journey but a visceral experience. It’s this combination of unsettling imagery and raw intensity that makes The Medium a standout for fans who crave something deeper and more disturbing in the horror genre.
At times,The Medium can be intensely unsettling, with scenes that truly get under your skin. The slow build-up of tension culminates in moments of raw emotional and psychological horror, leaving viewers on edge. With a runtime of 2 hours and 10 minutes, The Medium strikes a balance between building suspense and delivering a powerful narrative. If you’re looking for something newer to watch that you may not have heard of, check out this movie! As I am writing this it is free to watch on Shudder for you horror fans! 