Knocking

Knocking, directed by Frida Kempff, proves to be a captivating and hypnotic psychological thriller, plunging deep into the labyrinthine maze of paranoia, trauma and societal skepticism. Featuring a taut narrative, dazzling cinematography and an outstanding performance by Cecilia Milocco, the film creates an unsettling atmosphere that insinuates itself into the viewer's mind and leaves a lasting imprint long after the final credits roll.

The story revolves around Molly (Cecilia Milocco), a woman who, after a stay in a psychiatric hospital, moves into a new apartment in the hope of starting afresh after a personal tragedy. However, her aspirations for a normal life are quickly shattered by a persistent knocking noise on the ceiling. This enigmatic disturbance becomes the focus of her unease, sending her into a spiral of anguish. Molly's determination to uncover the truth behind these haunting knocks is hampered by the skepticism of those around her and by her own mental fragility.

Frida Kempff masterfully weaves a web of suspense, exploiting the inherent strangeness of inexplicable noises within an isolated apartment. The film pays homage to psychological thriller classics such as Roman Polanski's Repulsion and Alfred Hitchcock's Rear Window, drawing on their essence while infusing a tension of its own.

The film's major strength lies in its visual narrative. The cinematography skilfully captures the stifling heat wave that envelops the story, reflecting Molly's growing anxiety. The play of light and shadow inside the apartment contributes to the overwhelming sense of isolation and confinement that grips Molly. As Molly's world narrows, the audience experiences a growing sense of claustrophobia, a testament to Kempff's staging virtuosity.

Cecilia Milocco's interpretation of Molly is remarkable. With subtlety, she navigates the twists and turns of Molly's character, bringing to life a woman on the edge of sanity. Milocco's vulnerability and determination create a striking contrast, eliciting both empathy for her struggles and questions about her perception of reality. As the story unfolds, Milocco's performance evolves into a tour de force, anchoring the story's central emotional aspect.

The film's exploration of mental health is poignant and timely. Molly's journey reflects the challenges faced by individuals seeking mental well-being. The story highlights the stigma surrounding mental health issues and the damaging consequences of rejecting stories deemed unreliable, exacerbating the suffering of those involved.

Although Knocking excels at eliciting palpable terror and tension, the story's pace falters at times in its attempt to maintain this tension. Some viewers might consider the slow pace a test of their patience, but this contemplative approach eventually pays off, letting the psychological turmoil simmer and seep into our psyche.

At its most intense, the film takes a dramatic turn, unleashing a deluge of psychological chaos that mirrors Molly's deteriorating mental state. This sequence is a triumph of visual and sound design, immersing viewers in Molly's despair and hysteria. The sound design, in particular, pushes the tension to an almost unbearable level, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

Knocking transcends the simple thriller to become a gripping commentary on society's approach to trauma and mental health. Frida Kempff's fine direction, combined with Cecilia Milocco's outstanding performance, delivers an immersive and profound cinematic experience. By observing Molly's struggle to be heard and believed, the film reminds us of the importance of empathy, understanding and amplifying long-suppressed voices.

Within the thriller landscape, Knocking stands out as a nuanced exploration of the human psyche, unafraid to confront inner darkness and the challenges of the unknown. Frida Kempff's directorial debut confirms her status as a filmmaker to watch, and Knocking endures as a captivating, haunting journey, sparking introspection long after the final fade to black.

Knocking, directed by Frida Kempff, confidently establishes itself in the field of contemporary psychological thrillers, plunging viewers into the heart of the protagonist's psyche. This approach creates a personal and oppressive experience, skilfully capitalizing on the film's potential for empathy. However, although the film exploits this engaging idea, it struggles to free itself from its captivating premise and reach revolutionary heights.

Nevertheless, while the film's premise is intriguing, it struggles due to its relative simplicity, only partially succeeding in filling the film's running time with substantial content. Milocco's efforts sustain the film's momentum, but the repetition inherent in the story can sometimes be wearying, despite its undeniable qualities. It's possible that this choice is deliberate, aimed at highlighting the film's themes and immersing the audience in the protagonist's psyche, but it nevertheless hinders the overall narrative progression.

Knocking brilliantly adopts a slow pace, capturing a dark tone that matches its protagonist's performance. However, it struggles to move beyond its initial concept, failing to offer audiences new perspectives.

Kempff's film establishes a link with the present, evoking a sense of unity with the pandemic experience. Molly's isolation, anxiety and futile attempts to escape her situation resonate with the emotions many felt during this difficult time. However, the film was not intended as a straightforward allegory, which adds an extra layer to its interpretation.

By placing Molly's ordeal within her apartment, the film strategically immerses the audience in its emotional whirlwind. The suspense lies not in solving a mystery, but in our genuine concern for Molly's well-being. In this way, Knocking deftly shifts from a classic thriller to a poignant examination of mental disorder, grief and the struggle with the past. Molly's inner struggle to trust herself and others highlights broader social concerns about mental health and empathy.

Frida Kempff's directorial debut Knocking boldly delves into the unsettling recesses of psychological unease and mental turmoil. Thanks to meticulous direction and a convincing performance by Cecilia Milocco, the film transports viewers into the heart of Molly's tormented psyche, creating a disconcerting and thoughtful experience. The slow pace of the plot is amplified by a visual style that elicits claustrophobia and disorientation, as well as a haunting score that reinforces the film's sinister atmosphere. By overturning genre norms and focusing on the inner demons that torment its protagonist, Knocking presents itself as a contemplative exploration of trauma, trust and the haunting resonances of the past.

Knocking
Directed by Frida Kempff
Produced by Erik Andersson
Written by Emma Broström, based on a story by Johan Theorin
Starring Cecilia Milocco, Krister Kern, Albin Grenholm, Ville Virtanen, Alexander Salzberger
Cinematography : Hannes Krantz
Edited by Erika Gonzales
Production company : Läsk
Release date : January 30, 2021 (Sundance)
Running time : 78 minutes

Viewed on August 12, 2023 (Frightfest press screener)

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