A Horrible Woman

A Horrible Woman is an intensely gripping psychological drama that was released in 2017. This Danish movie, directed by the creative mind of Christian Tafdrup, showcases a thrilling narrative that tears into the fabric of relationships, presenting a story unlike anything seen before. A Horrible Woman presents a riveting exploration of human relationships and the darker corners of love and romance, seen primarily through the distinctively male lens of the film's lead character.

The film hinges on the performances of the two principal actors; Anders Juul, who portrays the character Simon, and Amanda Collin who takes up the role of the titular 'horrible woman' named Marie. The dynamic between the two characters becomes the crux of the narrative, unraveling the mystery that romantically involved couples often personify: what you see versus what is arguably the reality.

Simon is a character familiar to us all, a seemingly everyday man with a loving girlfriend, Marie. He is initially portrayed as a mild-mannered, affable individual, living a life of measured comfort in beautiful Denmark. Entering this serene setting is Marie, who is seemingly the picture of perfection. Charming, intelligent, and beautiful, she presents as the ideal partner in love. And as the relationship blossoms, the film delves deeper into their shared existence, displaying the joys and tribulations of a contemporary relationship.

But A Horrible Woman is not your typical romance narrative. While other films might romanticize love and relationships, A Horrible Woman offers a much more brutal depiction, bravely and ruthlessly shining a light on the darker elements of romantic relationships.

Amanda Collin's portrayal of Marie is the heartbeat of the film. Collin puts forth an enigmatic performance, embodying her character with unmistakable power and charisma. Marie is at once attractive and repelling, warm yet chilling, making her a complex entity that viewers can't help but scrutinize. This dichotomy of character traits offers an intriguing insight into the nature of romantic relationships, a reflection of the complexities and paradoxes that reside in human relations.

On the other hand, Anders Juul's Simon is relatable and sympathetic - a man enveloped by a love that is as bewitching as it is destructive. Audiences will find themselves sympathizing with Simon, as he grapples with the whirlwind that is Marie and their 'love'. His performance shines throughout, offering a refreshing push against the familiar narrative of male dominance in relationships.

Director Christian Tafdrup uses this narrative to offer a critique of gender roles within relationships. Provocative and intense, it questions societal expectations of men and women, examining issues of power, control, and manipulation. And in the world of A Horrible Woman, such themes are not merely tossed around but rather, trenchantly dissected for compelling viewing.

Wrapped within the plot is an engaging layer of mystery. There is a looming sense of suspense throughout the film, which keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, as the labyrinth of the story unfolds. Keeping the audience guessing about what Marie's ultimate intentions are, is a major driving force in the narrative's tense drama.

Rounding out the cast is Rasmus Hammerich who provides an important counterpoint as a friendly third party lends the narrative a dimension of perspective. His presence in the film, though secondary, creates moments of relief among the intense exchanges between Simon and Marie.

Boasting phenomenal performances, an engaging script, and masterful direction, A Horrible Woman is a cinematic triumph that skillfully turns the lens on the familiar yet intricate dynamics of a romantic affair. The 'horrible woman' and the 'naive man' of the movie could arguably be found in every relationship, leading to ponder whether these characters are a fact of nature, created from societal pressures, or a bit of both.

The haunting theme of the movie makes us contemplate over our own relationships, the roles we play, and the hidden aspects of our personalities. This exploration of man and woman's nature topped with a psychological twist makes A Horrible Woman a must-watch for those who love exploring the unusual terrain of romantic relationships, unseen in traditional love stories.