Don't Say that Word
Don't Say that Word

Movie spotlight

Don't Say that Word

2019
Movie
70 min
Japanese

Natsu is a soccer team assistant at Sanno High School. After a horrible tournament season in the summer, Natsu is requested to resign. She refuses and fights to stay, but eventually ends up leaving.

Insights

IMDb6.0/10
Director: Maxime GavaudanGenres: Short, Drama, Horror

Plot Summary

In this unsettling short film, a woman finds herself trapped in a surreal and nightmarish scenario where uttering a specific forbidden word triggers increasingly disturbing consequences. As she struggles to remain silent, the boundaries between reality and hallucination blur, leading her to a terrifying confrontation with her own fears and the oppressive forces around her. The film explores themes of repression, societal control, and the psychological impact of unspoken truths.

Critical Reception

Don't Say That Word received praise for its atmospheric tension and unsettling imagery, though its brevity and abstract nature left some viewers divided. Critics often highlighted the strong performances and the film's ability to create a palpable sense of dread within its short runtime. It is considered a notable entry in contemporary short horror cinema for its unique concept and disturbing execution.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its creepy atmosphere and effective build-up of tension.

  • The film's abstract nature and ambiguous ending were polarizing for some.

  • Strong performances from the lead actors contribute significantly to the unsettling mood.

Google audience: Information not available.

Fun Fact

The film's director, Maxime Gavaudan, is known for his work in experimental and avant-garde short films, often exploring psychological themes with a distinct visual style.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review