Ora, Ora Be Goin' Alone
In 1964, Momoko came by herself to Tokyo from her hometown. She met Shūzō and married him. They raised two children together, but Shūzō suddenly passes away. Momoko is dumbfounded by being alone again. She begins to go to the library and borrows books. This changes her life.
Insights
Plot Summary
A 12-year-old girl named Janica is desperate to win a talent competition to please her mother. To achieve this, she secretly raises a mysterious egg she finds, which hatches into a bird-like creature that Janica names "Chrestian." As "Chrestian" grows and her mother's obsession with perfection intensifies, Janica's life begins to unravel in terrifying ways.
Critical Reception
Hanna Bergholm's directorial debut was generally well-received by critics, who praised its unsettling atmosphere, strong performances, and its exploration of mother-daughter relationships and the pressures of performance. Some found the pacing a bit slow in parts, but the overall consensus pointed to a promising and disturbing new voice in horror.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its chilling atmosphere and psychological tension.
- Commended for strong performances, particularly from the young lead.
- Noted for its unique creature design and thematic depth.
Google audience: Audiences found the film to be a creepy and intriguing horror experience with a compelling central performance. While some wished for a more action-packed climax, many appreciated its suspenseful build-up and disturbing undertones.
Awards & Accolades
Premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2021, receiving positive attention. Nominated for several awards at the Jussi Awards (Finland's national film awards), including Best Film.
Fun Fact
The creature "Chrestian" was brought to life using a combination of practical effects and CGI, with the design inspired by birds and mythological creatures to create a unique and unsettling presence.
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