Grafted Review: A Viscerally Twisted Indie Body Horror Film That Shines on Shudder

Grafted: A Gripping Exploration of Body Horror

Grafted plunges viewers into a chilling body horror narrative that intensifies as a young woman grapples with her traumatic history. While reminiscent of the widely acclaimed The Substance, this film offers a more relatable story grounded in personal struggle and societal observations.

Grafted: Embracing the Body Horror Genre

Body horror, a compelling subgenre, often relies on consistent themes. Classic films such as Werewolves, The Human Centipede, and The Substance showcase various sources of horror, be it supernatural elements, deranged scientists, or unsettling mysteries. Grafted adeptly navigates these themes, offering a fresh take.

Moreover, the film goes beyond mere horror by integrating thought-provoking social commentary. It addresses the struggles of being perceived as different and underscores the innate human desire for acceptance. These deeper themes elevate the film, transforming it from a standard indie horror venture into a substantial narrative that merits recognition.

Although its comparisons to The Substance are inevitable, Grafted forges its unique identity. Its potency is especially striking for a project of modest scale, successfully crafting a captivating narrative. The film opens with an unsettling scene that sets a suspenseful tone, enhanced by an eerie soundscape that figures prominently throughout. The performers deliver commendable portrayals, elevating their characters through inherent depth and vulnerability.

Grafted: A Challenging Experience on a Limited Budget

Despite its strengths, the constraints of Grafted‘s budget become apparent throughout the film. The limited scale often hampers the emotional intensity, which may detract from the overall experience. Much of the film’s success rests on the shoulders of its actors, with Joyena Sun delivering a standout performance as the socially isolated protagonist struggling to connect. Additionally, Jess Hong and Eden Hart shine in their roles as popular peers, showcasing significant character evolution as the narrative unfolds.

Ultimately, Grafted serves as a noteworthy addition to the body horror genre, cleverly illustrating the detrimental impact of societal beauty standards and the extremes individuals pursue to attain acceptance. The film opens and concludes with a striking poster advocating self-acceptance through beauty products, effectively reinforcing its underlying critique. It compels audiences to reflect on their own boundaries, serving as both an exploration and cautionary tale.

Note: Grafted will be available for streaming on Shudder starting January 24.

Source & Images