🎬🎬”False Positive” (2021)
False Positive (2021): A Psychological Nightmare in the Journey of Motherhood
False Positive (2021) is a chilling psychological horror-thriller that plunges viewers into a tense journey surrounding pregnancy, medical trust, and female autonomy. Directed by John Lee and co-written by Ilana Glazer, the film not only marks Glazer’s transition from comedy to the thriller genre but also offers a sharp commentary on societal pressures faced by women.
Plot: From Joy to Terror
False Positive follows Lucy Martin (played by Ilana Glazer), a woman desperate to become a mother after years of struggling with infertility. With the help of renowned doctor John Hindle (Pierce Brosnan), Lucy finally conceives through in-vitro fertilization. However, her initial joy soon turns into a nightmare as she begins to notice disturbing signs. Doubts about her unborn child, manipulation from those around her, and a growing sense of losing control push Lucy into a state of paranoia and fear. The film masterfully navigates the thin line between reality and delusion, raising the question: Is Lucy succumbing to paranoia, or is there truly a sinister conspiracy at play?
Performances and Style
Ilana Glazer, best known for her comedic role in Broad City, showcases her versatility as Lucy. She portrays a character who is both vulnerable and resilient, allowing audiences to empathize with her escalating dread. Pierce Brosnan, with his suave demeanor and piercing gaze, delivers a captivating performance as Dr. John Hindle, a figure who is both charismatic and suspicious. Justin Theroux, as Lucy’s husband Adrian, adds to the tension, leaving viewers uncertain about his true loyalties.
Stylistically, False Positive evokes Rosemary’s Baby (1968) with its eerie atmosphere, close-up shots, and haunting score. Produced by A24—the studio behind films like Hereditary and Midsommar—the movie carries the hallmark of modern psychological horror, where fear stems not from jump scares but from deep-seated unease within the mind.
Themes and Message
False Positive is more than just a horror film; it’s a sharp social critique. It explores sensitive issues such as a woman’s autonomy over her body, the lack of transparency in the medical industry, and societal expectations of motherhood. Scenes in fertility clinics, manipulative conversations, and the protagonist’s self-doubt paint a grim picture of the pregnancy experience in a world filled with skepticism.
Reception and Reviews
Released on Hulu on June 25, 2021, False Positive received mixed reviews. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 47% approval rating based on 115 reviews, with critics praising the performances but noting that the plot occasionally lacks focus. Some lauded the film’s ability to evoke unease, while others felt its themes were not fully explored. Nevertheless, False Positive remains a compelling watch for fans of psychological horror and those interested in social issues.
Why You Should Watch
False Positive is a must-see for audiences who enjoy a blend of psychological horror and social commentary. With a runtime of 92 minutes, the film is concise enough to hold attention while deep enough to provoke thought. If you’re drawn to stories of suspicion, psychological manipulation, and inner strength, this is a film you won’t want to miss.
The movie is available on Hulu and other streaming platforms depending on your region. Prepare yourself for a haunting journey where trust is tested, and the truth remains just out of reach.
