Review: Humane is an engaging but imperfect experience

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Horror Movie Blog > Horror Movie Reviews > Humane Movie Review

Humane is a movie that is not great but isn't bad either and marks the debut in the directors chair of Caitlin Cronenberg

Caitlin Cronenberg steps into the director's chair for the first time with Humane, which is written and produced by Michael Sparaga. 

This dystopian horror and satire combo imagines a future where severe ecological crises have led governments to implement population control through euthanasia. 

This was one I was looking forward to, as the premise is interesting and the original teaser clip got me interested, but it is one I haven't heard much about either, so is it worth watching?

Synopsis

Set in a not-too-distant future, Humane introduces us to a world that mirrors our own, but instead of heavy-handed dystopian tropes, Cronenberg opts for subtle details. 

The story revolves around Charles York (Peter Gallagher), a prominent figure who, despite his wealth, decides to undergo euthanasia to set an example. 

His decision shocks his dysfunctional children: Jared (Jay Baruchel), a TV anthropologist spreading government propaganda; Rachel (Emily Hampshire), a ruthless pharmaceutical executive; Noah (Sebastian Chacon), a troubled musician battling addiction; and Ashley (Alanna Bale), an aspiring actress struggling to make ends meet.

When Bob (Enrico Colantoni) arrives for the procedure, Charles' plan unravels and with some unexpected twists and turns, the family must confront their selfish desires and decide who will sacrifice themselves for the greater good.

Trailer



A Film That Loses Momentum

The first part of Humane is all about trying to build the tension with some escalating family disputes that turn into bitter conflicts and as the story unfolds, unexpected betrayals decide to complicate the family's predicament, revealing their darker sides. 

The film loses some momentum quicker than it should though when the siblings focus on picking someone to sacrifice, and that's where the movie falters. 

It reaches its big moment too soon, and there’s just not enough to keep things as interesting as they and seems to just play on a loop.

The ending could have been better as well, as it leaves you reflecting on the characters' journey, but something is missing as it becomes all a little bit messy in the final half of the film.

Despite its heavy themes of privilege and authoritarianism, Humane still maintains a darkly comedic tone, and Cronenberg's direction on the whole shines and really captures some of the strong performances from the ensemble cast. 

Humane is probably more of a horror-thriller, as while it does have horror elements, it is more of a family drama than anything, so be warned, but the horror elements do work well.

Filmed predominantly in a historic Hamilton mansion, the film's elegant setting contrasts sharply with its brutal and bloody events as it  blends horror, satire, and dark humor and creates a somewhat engaging but imperfect experience. 

It's not great, but it's not that bad either, but it does leave you with a feeling we have a film here with a lot of unfulfilled promise. 

I would rate this film 55% on my horror movie nerd-o-meter.


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