Have you ever felt like you were slowly disappearing within your own life? Domestic abuse often feels like this, leaving no physical scars, yet inflicting deep psychological wounds. Mary Nighy’s directorial debut – Alice, Darling masterfully and hauntingly portrays this invisible violence, shedding light on the subtle manipulations and coercive behaviors that takes away an individual’s confidence and independence.
Anna Kendrick delivers a tour de force performance as Alice, a young woman suffocated by her controlling boyfriend, Simon (Charlie Carrick), who isolates her and fuels her anxiety. A week-long trip with her friends, Sophie (Wunmi Mosaku) and Tess (Kaniehtiio Horn), becomes a turning point, forcing Alice to confront her relationship and reclaim her identity. But Simon’s escalating possessiveness culminates in a tense showdown that will test Alice’s resilience and her friendships.
Unlike other movies on this subject, this nuanced psychological drama prioritizes a quiet, suspenseful atmosphere that highlights Alice’s internal struggles over her abuser’s aggression. It effectively lures viewers into her claustrophobic world while also highlighting the power of female friendship. Sophie and Tess’ unwavering support and genuine care become a critical element in Alice’s journey of escaping from her abusive relationship. Their bond shows the importance of connection and friendships in the face of isolating abuse.
Anna Kendrick, who has admitted that she had similar experiences of abuse in a past relationship, told ABC News why she felt compelled to portray Alice: “It was important to me to have the movie live in that uncertain space. Because that’s the experience. When you’re going through it, it’s kind of like playing mind games with yourself. A lot of people have told me, halfway through the movie, that they’re not sure if Alice is making it up and I actually think that’s kind of great because it really helps illuminate what the experience is inside of a person who’s going through it because you aren’t sure if you’re making it up.”
Dive into the psychological thriller ‘Alice, Darling’, available April 4, 2025 on Lionsgate Play on PLDT Home and Smart.