Title: Talk to Me - A Promising Yet Unsettling Midnight Horror

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)

"Talk to Me" dives into the realm of horror as it explores the consequences of a cursed hand that possesses those who dare to hold it. Directed by Australian brothers Danny and Michael Philippou, the film showcases their unique blend of old-fashioned horror storytelling and daring new ideas. While it doesn't quite reach its full potential, "Talk to Me" offers a promising glimpse into the directors' vision and leaves audiences eager to see what they have in store next.

The movie opens with a gripping and shocking scene, setting the stage for a thrilling Midnight experience. Mia (played by Sophie Wilde) finds herself entangled in a viral craze surrounding the cursed hand. If one holds the hand and utters the words, "Talk to me," a spirit is summoned and can possess them for 90 seconds. The teenagers involved in this trend record their possessions, sharing them online for all to see. It's a modern twist on classic horror themes, reminiscent of "The Exorcist" with a TikTok twist.

The concept behind "Talk to Me" is intriguing, offering a fresh take on the familiar trope of young people dabbling with supernatural forces. The film initially builds strong momentum, showcasing stunning makeup and visual effects for the haunting spirits that emerge during the possessions. The Philippou brothers demonstrate their knack for crafting memorable horror imagery, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.

However, as the story progresses, "Talk to Me" falters in maintaining its rising tension. The filmmakers lose some of their initial momentum, focusing too much on Mia's emotional baggage and detracting from the core horror elements. Despite this setback, the performances in the film remain strong, and the Philippous' visual language demonstrates their growth beyond their YouTube background.

"Talk to Me" falls within the classic horror genre of youth experimenting with the unknown. While it follows familiar beats, it manages to introduce enough fresh ideas to captivate viewers. The film's potential shines through, even if it doesn't fully deliver on its promises. The Philippou brothers' innovative storytelling and bold visuals make them a duo to watch for future projects.

Although "Talk to Me" may not reach the heights of its initial concept, it showcases enough potential and creativity to leave audiences intrigued. The film's unsettling moments and promising filmmaking mark it as a notable entry in the Midnight genre, encouraging viewers to listen closely for the Philippou brothers' next endeavor.