The Unborn Child

The Unborn Child, directed by Poj Arnon, is a tragic Thai horror movie that was released in 2011. The film is composed of a skillful blend of paranormal elements and heart-wrenching drama, woven together in a gripping narrative that dissects and examines the sensitive topic of abortion. It showcases the talents of well-known actors, including Somchai Kemglad, Pitchanart Sakakorn, and Shinaradee Anupongpichart, who breathe life into their emotionally charged roles.

The plot revolves around the life of a couple; the notorious entertainment writer, Benz (played by Somchai Kemglad) and his girlfriend Rose (portrayed by Pitchanart Sakakorn). Rose is an ambitious woman who, despite her humble beginnings, is looking to burgeoning climb the corporate ladder. She finds herself pregnant but decides it's not well-timed, as she perceives motherhood would serve as a roadblock in making strides towards her professional aspirations. This sparks intense controversy in their relationship, leading to a series of dramatic encounters that shift the trajectory of their lives.

In the spirit of traditional horror films, the story takes a turn to the supernatural after the distressing events brought on by Rose's decision. The accused unborn child seems to come back to haunt the couple, propelling the storyline into the realms of Thai folklore and otherworldly forces. The audience is taken on a rollercoaster ride of exploration of cultural beliefs, ghostly encounters, and psychological turmoil that keep them on the edge of their seats.

As a horror flick, The Unborn Child delivers a chilling atmosphere full of suspense and fear. It successfully cultivates a menacing ambiance utilizing sound effects, music, and cinematography to create unforgettable scenes that are both eerie and haunting. The film has a gripping storyline and the horror elements serve to amplify the emotional punch it packs, rather than overshadow it.

Beyond the surface level horror, the movie is a commentary on abortion and the cultural, societal, and personal perceptions that surround the issue. It's a deep dive into the emotional complexities and ethical implications of this controversial decision. Weaving in metaphysical beliefs, it presents differing viewpoints and individual responses to abortions. This element significantly deepens the movie beyond a typical fright-flick, giving it a nuanced and somber quality.

The outstanding performances from the principal actors significantly contribute to the emotional intensity of the story. Somchai Kemglad, widely recognized in the Thai film industry, convincingly portrays the conflicted Benz, displaying a vast range of emotions throughout the film. Pitchanart Sakakorn, likewise, demonstrates remarkable prowess as the determined and ambitious Rose. Her portrayal makes the audience empathize with her character and question their own moral standings. Shinaradee Anupongpichart completes the trio with a firmly grounded performance, adding to the somber texture of the film.

In all, The Unborn Child is not a mere horror movie filled with jump scares; instead, it is a thought-provoking film that raises questions, prompting the viewers to ponder over challenging issues. This film allows audiences to immerse themselves in a narrative that is as chilling as it is tear-jerking, grappling with eerie paranormal elements and real-life drama simultaneously.

The Unborn Child is a testament to Poj Arnon's ability to curate a complex narrative that harmoniously merges horror elements with profound societal issues. It's a film designed not only to scare but to evoke emotions, making audiences think, challenge their beliefs, and question societal norms. With strong performances, captivating storyline, haunting visual effects, and a thought-provoking underlying theme, The Unborn Child is a film that leaves a lasting impression and sets itself apart in the genre of horror movies.