Review by Jon Donnis
Caroline Lindy's Your Monster is a bold and unconventional mix of romantic comedy and horror that manages to entertain while exploring deeper emotional themes. With a standout performance from Melissa Barrera and a story that takes unexpected turns, the film is quirky, heartfelt, and sometimes unsettling. It might not appeal to everyone, but it is undeniably memorable.
The story centres on Laura Franco, a young actress battling cancer and recovering from a painful breakup with her boyfriend, Jacob Sullivan. Forced to move back into her childhood home, Laura discovers a mysterious creature living in the upstairs closet. Though their initial encounters are filled with fear and hostility, she and the Monster eventually bond over their shared love of theatre. What starts as a peculiar friendship evolves into a tender connection that brings both warmth and strangeness to the film.
Melissa Barrera is exceptional in the lead role, portraying Laura with vulnerability and strength. She grounds the film, giving life to the character's emotional struggles and triumphs. Tommy Dewey brings surprising charisma to the Monster, managing to make a creature from the shadows both endearing and compelling. Their chemistry is the heart of the movie, making their odd relationship believable and engaging.
While the film's exploration of toxic relationships and self-discovery is thought-provoking, its tone can be uneven. At times, the movie veers wildly between heartfelt drama, absurd comedy, and moments of genuine horror. This unpredictability keeps things interesting but might feel jarring for some viewers. The climax, though emotionally satisfying, leans heavily into melodrama, which could divide opinions on how well it fits the rest of the story.
The film's quirky premise and genre-blending approach make it feel fresh, even if it is not entirely polished. Its commentary on imbalanced relationships is well done, though it occasionally comes across as heavy-handed. There is also a sense that the film might resonate more with a female audience, particularly because of its focus on Laura's emotional growth and the romantic elements, which might leave male viewers less invested.
Despite its flaws, Your Monster is an entertaining and distinctive film. It balances its sweet and sinister aspects well, offering something new and unexpected in the world of romantic comedies. The strong performances, particularly Barrera's, elevate the story and make it worth watching, even when the tone wobbles.
This is a film that stays with you, mixing humour, heartbreak, and a touch of the macabre in a way that feels unique. It might not be perfect, but it is certainly a fun and thought-provoking experience that deserves a chance. Fans of offbeat romantic comedies with a twist of horror will likely find themselves charmed. I score Your Monster a safe 7 out of 10. One for the women.
Out Now on Digital
Amazon - https://amzn.to/4fXQV5D
