Matriarch
Matriarch

Movie spotlight

Matriarch

2019
Movie
93 min
Croatian

The story of Jasna, a Croatian ex-pat who, due to her mother Anka's declining health, is forced to return to a place she has been avoiding most of her life - her home. The two haven't been in touch for years, but the proximity of death forces them to confront the ghosts of their past. It is also a portrait of life in a typical small town in the midst of Mediterranean hinterland. Plunging into the anxieties of the community, MATER subtly uncovers class, status, and gender issues that shape Anka's and Jasna's personalities - their stubbornness, strength, and tragic flaws.

Insights

IMDb5.1/10
Director: Roxanne BenjaminGenres: Horror, Mystery, Thriller

Plot Summary

A woman, seeking answers about her family's dark past, travels to a remote village in Africa. Upon arrival, she uncovers unsettling secrets and finds herself entangled in a dangerous, supernatural force connected to her lineage. As the village's ancient traditions and dark rituals come to light, she must confront her destiny before it consumes her.

Critical Reception

Matriarch received a mixed to negative reception from critics, with some appreciating its atmospheric tension and thematic exploration, while others found its execution lacking in originality and coherence. Audience reactions were similarly divided, with its slow burn and supernatural elements appealing to some horror fans but alienating others.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its unsettling atmosphere and exploration of hereditary curses.

  • Criticized for a predictable plot and underdeveloped characters.

  • The film's visual style and sound design were often highlighted as its stronger elements.

Google audience: Audience reviews for Matriarch are scarce, making it difficult to ascertain a definitive summary of likeability. However, the few available comments suggest a polarizing experience, with some viewers appreciating the film's attempts at a unique horror narrative while others found it to be a disappointing and generic entry in the genre.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on location in South Africa, lending an authentic backdrop to its supernatural themes.

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