Alice, Darling – A Psychological Drama That Unmasks Silent Suffering
Title: Alice, Darling
Genre: Drama, Thriller
Director: Mary Nighy
Writer: Alanna Francis
Starring: Anna Kendrick, Kaniehtiio Horn, Wunmi Mosaku, Charlie Carrick
Release Date: December 2022 (limited), January 2023 (wider release)
Runtime: 90 minutes
Overview
A gripping psychological drama, Alice, Darling is not your typical thriller. Directed by Mary Nighy in her feature directorial debut, the film explores the silent torment of emotional abuse and the quiet strength it takes to reclaim one’s identity. Anchored by a haunting and nuanced performance from Anna Kendrick, this film pulls viewers into the internal world of a woman caught in a web of control, secrecy, and self-doubt.
Plot Summary
Alice appears to be a successful, composed woman with a loving boyfriend, Simon. But beneath the surface, she’s unraveling. Simon’s manipulation and psychological abuse are subtle—never overt, never loud, but always present. Alice’s growing anxiety manifests in compulsive behaviors and emotional withdrawal.
When Alice joins her two close friends, Tess and Sophie, for a getaway at a lake house, the cracks in her facade begin to show. Away from Simon’s influence, she begins to rediscover who she is—but Simon’s control doesn’t fade easily. As the weekend unfolds, the bond between the three women is tested, and Alice must decide whether she’s ready to confront the truth and escape the cycle of abuse.
Themes & Analysis
Emotional Abuse and Gaslighting:
What makes Alice, Darling powerful is its portrayal of abuse without bruises. The film sheds light on emotional manipulation, which often goes unnoticed in media portrayals. The subtle ways Simon invades Alice’s psyche are terrifying precisely because they are so quiet and realistic.
Female Friendship and Empowerment:
At its heart, this is a story of friendship. Tess and Sophie aren’t just supporting characters—they’re part of Alice’s healing process. The film emphasizes how vital honest relationships are in helping someone recognize abuse and find the strength to change.
Isolation and Self-Discovery:
Alice’s journey is internal. The lake house serves as a metaphor for her mental space—a place removed from the noise, where clarity begins to form. The film doesn’t rely on shocking twists; instead, it focuses on character and emotion to drive the story.
Performance Highlights
Anna Kendrick delivers a career-defining performance. Known for her comedic and musical roles, Kendrick here strips away charm for vulnerability. Her portrayal of Alice is raw, restrained, and deeply empathetic. It’s a performance that resonates long after the credits roll.
Supporting actors Wunmi Mosaku (Sophie) and Kaniehtiio Horn (Tess) bring warmth, authenticity, and strength to their roles, forming a believable and heartfelt trio of lifelong friends. Charlie Carrick as Simon plays the role of a manipulator with chilling precision.
Direction & Cinematography
Mary Nighy approaches the subject with a sensitive and restrained eye. Her direction avoids melodrama, opting instead for realism and emotional authenticity. The cinematography uses natural lighting and intimate framing to bring us closer to Alice’s emotional state. Every shot feels deliberate—quiet but heavy with meaning.
Why You Should Watch Alice, Darling
If you’re looking for a film that explores difficult, real-world issues with intelligence and emotional depth, Alice, Darling delivers. It’s a quiet but powerful story about reclaiming autonomy, recognizing red flags, and the power of true friendship. It’s not a thriller that scares you with loud noises—it unsettles you with truths many choose to ignore.
Final Verdict
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
A compelling and emotionally intelligent film with a standout performance by Anna Kendrick. Thought-provoking and beautifully made, Alice, Darling is a quiet triumph in the psychological drama genre.
