Exclusive Review of Warner Bros. BONES AND ALL

Bones and All is the newest instalment from director Luca Guadagino (‘Call me by your Name’, ‘Syspria’); a harrowing tale of two romantics on the outskirts of society in the midwest. With grim and insatiable compulsions to indulge in cannibalism, the duo explore their feelings for one another, and the world around them.

The story opens on Maren (Taylor Russell), a senior year student at a new school. After a visceral slumber party scene in which Maren attempts to bite off (and eat) another girl’s finger, we learn that this isn’t the first instance of Maren attempting to ‘Eat’. After being abandoned by her father, she sets out on the road to find her mother; meeting other ‘Eaters’ on the way – some more well-intentioned than others. After pairing with another Eater by the name of Lee (Timothee Chalamet), the couple explore their respective familial relations in the hope of finding peace, and themselves.

In the current climate of cinema, teeming with live-action remakes, sequels, and prequels, it’s a blessing to see a narrative that we haven’t been fed (no pun intended) a multitude of times. Whilst I wouldn’t describe the topic-matter as ‘refreshing’, having a sentimental fiction run in parallel to some of the goriest scenes I have ever witnessed was a new  experience. This dynamic split really added to pacing, even with lengthy runtime, and the shift in atmosphere supplemented the thriller scenes perfectly. The use of the score to build tension and added to the torturous intent of grisly scenes, leaving nothing to the imagination.

The chemistry between the leading duo was astounding throughout, Russells commitment was especially compelling and provided an anchoring to Chalamet’s chaotic character. It was unusual to see the latter take on such an untamed role considering his portfolio, but it was interesting to see the young actor expand his repertoire. Similarly, given the promising performance from Russell, it will be exciting to see what genre she prospects next.

It cannot be stressed enough that whilst this film is incredibly beautiful and carries a fresh, provocative story, it is not for the faint hearted. The screening had many patrons walking out due to ‘Eating’ scenes; in conversations with other viewers afterwards, even tenured horror fans struggled through the first 45 minutes. My advice to prospective viewers is that ‘Bones and All’ is an incredible film, just don’t go and watch it before or after dinner.

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CREDIT: GRACE SANDERS

Author: The Student Pages Team