Run rabbit run

Run Rabbit Run lies somewhere between ambiguity and confusion. Although the film succeeds in creating moments of tension and unease, it also relies on horror clichés that seem disjointed when brought together. The film's strength lies in the performance of Sarah Snook, best known for her role in Succession. Snook effortlessly interprets a range of emotions, from subtle reactions to genuine emotional crises, demonstrating her talent for psychological thrillers. Her commitment to the role and willingness to delve into the dark and twisted aspects of the story bode well for her future in the genre.

The film's story thus follows Sarah (Sarah Snook), a single mother, is already on edge when a mysterious rabbit appears on her doorstep as a birthday present for her daughter Mia. Mia becomes attached to the rabbit, while Sarah becomes increasingly troubled. Strange things begin to happen, including Mia pretending to be Sarah's long-lost sister Alice, and asking to speak to their estranged mother Joan. As Sarah's sanity begins to crumble, the rabbit continues to be present in their lives, leaving viewers to wonder about its significance and link to the family's past.

The theme of motherhood is explored throughout the film, a common motif in horror films. The fear of losing control of one's child and the vulnerability that comes with parenthood are at the heart of the story. Sarah's relationship with Mia, as well as her complicated dynamic with her own mother, add layers of guilt and regret. The film addresses generational trauma and the lingering effects of past mistakes, creating a sense of isolation and haunting.

Visually, Run Rabbit Run captures the haunting landscape of rural Australia. Bonnie Elliot's cinematography plays with light and darkness, reflecting Sarah's descent into madness. The film's setting, with its windswept horizons, stormy skies and desolate environment, adds to the overall atmosphere of unease. Although Run Rabbit Run is not a groundbreaking horror film, it manages to create an intriguing and frightening experience. It explores the complexities of motherhood and the psychological consequences it can have. However, the film fails to fully exploit its potential, leaving viewers wanting more in terms of depth and cohesion. Nevertheless, Snook's convincing performance and the film's sinister atmosphere make it well worth seeing for fans of psychological thrillers.

Run Rabbit Run
Directed by Daina Reid
Written by Hannah Kent
Produced by Anna McLeish, Naomi Mulholland, Sarah Shaw
Starring Sarah Snook, Lily LaTorre, Damon Herriman, Greta Scacchi
Cinematography :Bonnie Elliott
Edited by Nick Meyers
Music by Mark Bradshaw, Marcus Whale
Production companies : XYZ Films, Carver Films
Distributed by Netflix
Release dates : 19 January 2023 (Sundance), 28 June 2023 (Netflix)
Running time : 100 minutes

Viewed on June 28, 2023 (Netflix)

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