Demons Inside Me

Demons Inside Me, released in 2019, is a thought-provoking psychological horror film directed by Alexandre Carrière. The film stars Morgan Kohan, Sebastian Pigott, and Deanna Jarvis in lead roles. The narrative unfolds around a young woman who is grappling with her inner demons – revealing the complex intertwining of trauma, struggles, and the human psyche.

The film opens with the protagonist, an affluent yet troubled young woman named Jasmine, portrayed by Morgan Kohan. Jasmine, who grew up isolated in both an emotional and physical sense, has traveled from her home to a remote villa nestled in an unspecified location. This picturesque and idyllic villa is contrasted by Jasmine's ailing mental health, subtly hinting at the stark dichotomy of outward appearances and inward turmoil.

As the narrative progresses, it is revealed that Jasmine has had a tumultuous past, which continues to haunt her everyday life. This significant backstory is unveiled gradually, masterfully teased through a series of disturbing dreams and haunting flashbacks. This cinematic tool allows viewers to empathize and better understand Jasmine's present state.

Jasmine's friends and the charming, soulful Alexander, masterfully played by Sebastian Pigott, join her at the isolated villa. They are seemingly oblivious to the extent of Jasmine's struggles and, in their attempts to cheer her up, fail to understand her mental distress. This alienation exacerbates Jasmine's feeling of isolation, offering a relatable perspective on how mental health can often be misunderstood.

While her friends are seen enjoying the sprawling lush green fields, sun-drenched vistas and luxuriating in the swimming pool, Jasmine spends her time alone, unable to enjoy the pleasures the villa offers. Music and sound play a crucial role in the filmmaking here, setting the mood and highlighting Jasmine's emotional alienation amidst the tropical paradise.

What really sets Demons Inside Me apart from other films in the horror genre is its focus on psychological terror over physical horror. The movie emphasizes the terror and fears that Jasmine experiences within her mind – with representation of her signs of depression, anxiety, and the harrowing panic attacks she experiences. Toomai, portrayed by Deanna Jarvis, plays a critical role in Jasmine's journey, adding another character dimension to the film.

Despite the troubling subject matter, the movie is beautifully filmed with stunning cinematography. The stunning visuals contrast the distress that the protagonist is feeling, serving as a metaphor that no amount of aesthetic beauty can mask deep-seated internal pain.

Moreover, the manipulation of time through flashbacks is strategically used to allow the audience to piece together Jasmine's history, as well as understand the origins of Jasmine's trauma. The movie progressively illustrates how her past has shaped her present and how she has to confront her demons before she can hope for healing.

Another strong point of the film is its well fleshed-out characters. Even though the plot centres around Jasmine, each character has their own intriguing backstory and essence that make them captivating in their own right. These well-rounded characters, coupled with the film’s thoughtfully-scripted dialogue, further enrich the narrative and deepen the viewing experience.

Sebastian Pigott's portrayal of Alexander provides rare moments of solace in the film, whilst Deanna Jarvis as Toomai adds an enigmatic and mysterious element. The performances are commendable, and Morgan Kohan carries the heaviness of her role as Jasmine convincingly and with great intensity.

Demons Inside Me isn't just another horror flick. This film conveys the true horror and seriousness of mental illness - the real demons that individuals often keep hidden. The film engages viewers with its mysterious plotline and constant tension, making them question the boundaries between reality and personal nightmares. This complex, richly-layered film exhibits horror as not just physical terror, but as the mental torment that can engulf life, a poignant take on a genre more associated with jump-scares and gore. The film reminds viewers that sometimes, one's own mind can be the most unsettling and horrifying place of all.