We Go On

We Go On from 2016 is a thought-provoking psychological thriller that takes viewers on a gripping journey into the supernatural realm and the exploration of our deepest fears - what lies beyond death. Directed by acclaimed directors Jesse Holland and Andy Mitton, the film presents an unorthodox approach to the horror genre, combining elements of unpredictability, suspense, and profound contemplation on existential topics.

The narrative revolves around the story of Miles Grissom, portrayed by Clark Freeman, who is afflicted by a crippling phobia of death and the potential nonexistence beyond it. In a unique and twisted spin on conventional phobia films, this isn't simply about a man with a general fear. Instead, it delves deep into the crippling implications of Thanatophobia - the fear of death.

Beyond his ordinary life, Miles nurtures an insatiable obsession with his fear, which prompts him to spend his savings on advertising an unusual offer: $30,000 reward for anyone who can provide proof and assurance that life continues after we die, be it in the form of a ghost, reincarnation, or any undeniable evidence of an afterlife. The challenge attracts a wide variety of shady respondents, including pseudo-scientists, spiritualists, and charlatans, all claiming they can provide the proof he seeks. Amidst the crowd of opportunists lies an answer that might be what Miles is searching for, or worse, a darker truth that he dreads.

In this precarious setup, Annette O'Toole shines as Miles' concerned and skeptical mother, Charlotte, who inherently fears this venture will trigger her son's existing anxieties and drive him down a dangerous path. In her profound maternal concern and inherent skepticism, she keeps trying to protect her son from potential harm.

John Glover adds another brilliant layer to the cast, playing an intriguing character who becomes an essential part of Miles' journey. The multi-dimensional characters with their distinct perspectives make the movie a compelling experience, providing more depth besides the spookiness associated with the genre.

We Go On is more than a typical supernatural horror thriller, it transcends the boundaries of the genre to delve into human emotions, phobias, and life's biggest question - what happens after we die? The film employs a unique narrative style that seamlessly bridges existential apprehensions with elements of horror. The psychological and philosophical inquiries are beautifully embroidered with suspense and subtle elements of terror.

The atmosphere of the film is crafted with immense precision to convey an eerie and spine-chilling aesthetic without redundant graphic horror details. The chilling factor is largely psychological and suspenseful. Predominantly, it employs a more realistic setting to draw fear, underlined by subtle haunting musical notes that amplify the suspense.

The movie is shot beautifully, capturing the respective scenes' emotions and intensity successfully, whether it is the under-the-surface calm of Miles' normal life or the disturbing and suspenseful explorations of the existence of an afterlife.

Jesse Holland and Andy Mitton's direction makes exemplary use of suspense and fear of the unknown, playing on the stark terror that stems from the realization of our mortality and the mystery surrounding the concept of life after death. Their vision crafts a thrilling plot filled with unexpected twists and heart-stopping revelations.

We Go On is a marriage of an intelligent script, compelling performances, and masterful storytelling that keep you hooked until the very end. It stands out in the horror genre for its philosophical underpinnings, psychological suspense, and its fresh take on an age-old question. It is cleverly designed to leave viewers repeatedly questioning, contemplating, and unnerved long after the credits roll. This piece, indeed, lingers.

If you appreciate a smart psychological horror flick with a deep narrative, We Go On is a film worth watching. It is a captivating blend of suspense, horror, and existential drama that keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout. Smart, terrifying, and profoundly contemplative, this gem of a film manages to unsettle and prompt reflective thought amongst its audience effectively.