Pure

Pure is a 2019 thriller drama American movie, directed by Hannah Macpherson and written by Paul Fischer and Paul Davis. The film premiered as a part of the Into the Dark series on Hulu and is the first to be centered around female leads. The story presents a unique mix of drama, suspense, horror, and a touch of satire. The film stars Jahkara Smith (Moth), McKaley Miller (Lacey), and Ciara Bravo (Shay).

One of the high points of this movie is its unique concept and plot outline. Pure is set in the backdrop of a purity retreat for teenage girls put together and run by their over-zealous fathers. It is an exploration of the female experience, code of conduct, purity culture, faith, and religion.

At the heart of the film is Shay (played by Ciara Bravo), a teenage girl grappling with the recent loss of her mother. Living with her stepfather, Shay naturally feels the absence of her mother's comforting presence. Her stepfather coerces her in attending a twisted and unconventional purity ball, a public ceremony for fathers and daughters, wherein girls pledge their purity until marriage.

Shay's father has remarried, and now she has a half-sister, Jo, who is also attending the purity retreat. Jo wants to respect and affirm the purity pledge but is confused and disturbed by the conditions and factors surrounding it, and being in the same boat, Shay offers to help her.

Lacey (McKaley Miller), assertive and confident, plays the role of the enthusiastic daughter of Pastor Seth. While she embraces the idea of the retreat wholeheartedly, the conflict arises when she begins to question the rules and the system, thus adding a critical twist to the story, amplifying the drama and interplay of perspectives.

Rounding off this trio of girls is Moth (Jahkara Smith), the unconventional rebel of the group, challenging the stereotype and adding a colorful character to the narrative.

In addition to exploring the paradox of purity balls, the movie also offers an entrancing mix of suspense and supernatural elements. The girls combat their inner demons while also struggling with a mysterious supernatural presence that lurks amongst them. Fear and anxiety hang in the air, offering a bone-chilling experience.

It's not an archetypal horror movie that is throbbing with jump scares, but a slow-paced exploration that masterfully builds tension and intrigue, and keeps the audience engaged. It's an exploration into the mind of teenage girls, panning through their insecurities, emotional vulnerabilities, subjective understanding of faith, and more.

Not to forget, the movie also plays a pivotal role in underscoring women's rights and addressing the themes of women’s autonomy, liberty, and consent. The narrative doesn't shy away from highlighting the patriarchal hold over women's freedom, and it does so while offering a noteworthy psychological thriller experience.

The performances of Jahkara Smith, McKaley Miller, and Ciara Bravo provides the movie with the perfect blend of innocence, rebellion, and maturity, making it an engaging cinematic experience. They are not just surviving; they are trying to understand their journey from being girls to women in a society that's not always supportive.

Hannah Macpherson has done an impactful job directing the film and successfully knits the fabric of suspense, horror, and drama while bringing out the narrative's essence. Pure, in its essence, reflects on the societal perception of female empowerment, individuality, and the freedom to make choices.

In conclusion, Pure is part horror, part thriller, and all feminist drama with a supernatural spin. It's a tale that is memorable for its unique storyline, impressive performances, and emotionally resonant themes. Expect to be on the edge of your seat, haunted and thrilled, as the story of 'Pure' unfolds. This film ensures a compelling watch with its gripping narrative, stellar performances, and unique approach towards storytelling. It offers chilling suspense while addressing significant societal norms, creating an intriguing movie watching experience.