Saint Maud, Rose Glass, 2019

[yogiyamada]

"Saint Maud" is a psychological horror film released in 2019, directed by Rose Glass and starring Morfydd Clark and Jennifer Ehle. The movie tells the story of Maud, a deeply religious and troubled young nurse who becomes obsessed with saving the soul of her terminally ill patient, Amanda.
Morfydd Clark's portrayal of Maud has been particularly praised for its intensity and nuance, as she masterfully conveys the character's descent into religious fanaticism and delusion. Jennifer Ehle also delivers a powerful performance as Amanda, a former dancer who is now dying of cancer and struggling to come to terms with her mortality. In terms of visuals and cinematography, "Saint Maud" is a stunning film, with striking imagery and a distinct visual style that adds to the movie's eerie and unsettling atmosphere. The use of sound and music is also effective, with a haunting score that adds to the film's sense of dread and unease.

Overall, "Saint Maud" is a haunting and thought-provoking film that is sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences. It is a must-see for fans of psychological horror and those who appreciate complex and nuanced storytelling. The film's exploration of religious themes and the psychological toll of religious extremism. Some critics found the movie's ending to be divisive and thought-provoking, while others found it unsatisfying.

Throughout the movie, Maud grapples with feelings of guilt, shame, and unworthiness, all of which stem from her belief that she is not doing enough to please her god. Her obsession with saving Amanda's soul becomes all-consuming, leading her to take drastic and violent actions. Ultimately, the film suggests that Maud's religious beliefs and the pressure she puts on herself to be a "saint" lead her down a path of self-destruction. By examining the psychological effects of religious extremism, "Saint Maud" raises important questions about the role of faith in our lives and the dangers of taking religious beliefs to an unhealthy extreme.
"Saint Maud" is a well-crafted and unsettling horror film that offers a unique take on the genre. If you're a fan of psychological horror and don't mind slow-burning narratives, it's definitely worth checking out.