Few things in the real world are scarier than a persistent stalker. Few things in horror movies are scarier than evil old ladies. Neil Jordan’s newest film, “Greta”, combines the two for a cat-and-mouse thrill ride of psychological mind games and disturbing twists, albeit with a side of pulp clichés.
This 2018 thriller centres on the relationship of its two female leads – the fish-out-of-water Frances McCullen (Chloe Grace Moretz); a young, lonely woman struggling to settle in the Big Apple, and an equally lonely, isolated widow named Greta (Isabelle Huppert).
The story sets out on the New York subway where Frances comes upon an abandoned handbag that leads her to Greta’s address, and the two bond over their shared yearning for companionship. Frances learns of Greta’s estranged daughter and her days spent in solitude with nothing but a grand piano to pass the time. Greta, on the other hand, takes a liking to Frances and her graciousness, and it’s not long before the two strike an unlikely friendship.
Except, as most of these horror flicks go, Frances soon discovers that Greta’s not exactly as she seems.
To start off with the positives, Huppert and Moretz deliver strong performances that undoubtedly carry the entire film. Greta successfully poses as a chilling, unpredictable psychopath who somehow weasels her way into the intimacies of Frances’ life, while still exuding an eerie air of whimsy that adds a touch more delightful deviance.
Moretz plays Frances with a convincing range of emotion, from moments of compassion to times of utter, palpable distress. The scenes are fast-paced; many delivered with edge-of-your-seat suspense that truly make for an enjoyable thriller experience.
Unfortunately, the film isn’t without its share of camp – particularly in the typical aspects of cheap jump scares, predictable plot points, and frustratingly dumb decisions.
While the ‘jump scares’ are forgivable (Jordan seems to ease up on them in the latter half of the film), most of the movie isn’t much you haven’t seen before. Those who’ve seen films in the age-old genre of stalkers and psychotic obsession are sure to predict where much of the plot is headed; from character revelations to climactic resolutions.
It was also disappointing to see how many of the film’s characters fall prey to unexplained naivety, or – to be blunt – just plain stupidity. Plenty of its harrowing incidents may have very well been prevented through less recklessness and more practical action, and in these moments, I just had to suspend my disbelief.
All-in-all, however, “Greta” was still a fun time – if on occasion, a tad goofy. With A-list leads that make up most of this movie’s enjoyment and Jordan’s effectively creepy direction; for those keen on a generally entertaining thrill ride, this one makes the cut.
(All photos courtesy of Focus Features.)