Body horror, a genre popularised by David Cronenberg, is back under the limelight with an unexpected and unique twist. Eminent directors like Luca Guadagnino and Julia Ducournau are credited for reigniting interest in the genre that explores bodily transformations as metaphors. 'Together', a Sundance film, brings a new perspective to the body horror tradition, featuring the real-life couple Dave Franco, and Alison Brie playing a pair with complex relationship dynamics.
Set in a rural backdrop, 'Together' narrates the story of Franco and Brie's characters trying to reinvent their stagnant love life. As they move to the countryside, they come across a mysterious cave with strange artefacts and elements that leads them to encounter a supernatural ordeal. As the movie progresses, the couple experiences strange transformations hinting versatility within the body horror genre.
In the second of the film, an uncanny scene of hands sliding underneath skin takes centre stage. Strikingly similar to a scene from Luca Guadagnino's 'Queer', the moment is integral to the complex love story that unfolds amidst the horror.
Apart from its unique narrative blend, 'Together's' real-lie pairing of Franco and Brie adds authenticity to their journey of navigating the unique predicament. Stemming from their offscreen chemistry, the characters’ tiffs and eventual togetherness contribute to the film's larger theme of unity beyond love.
The story subtly incorporates the philosophical perspective of Plato's construction of love as two separated halves seeking reunion. This adds a distinct layer to the narrative, enriching the horror experience with the profound emotion of love. Nonetheless, 'Together' offers a fair share of conventional horror with its innovative visual effects and scenes inducing uproarious laughter. Consequently, 'Together' has emerged as a unique product within the body horror genre, treating the serious subject of love with light-hearted finesse.
