The horror genre has found a relentless champion in A24, a studio synonymous with pushing boundaries and redefining what scares us. Their latest offering, Bring Her Back, directed by Danny and Michael Philippou—the Australian twins behind the 2023 breakout hit Talk to Me—promises to be a chilling evolution of their craft. Released on May 30, 2025, this film dives deeper into the psychological and supernatural, delivering an experience that’s as unsettling as it is thought-provoking. Here’s why Bring Her Back is poised to be a must-watch for horror aficionados and casual viewers alike.
A Bold Follow-Up to Talk to Me
The Philippou brothers made waves with Talk to Me, a film that blended visceral jump scares with a poignant exploration of grief, earning $92 million worldwide and becoming A24’s highest-grossing horror film domestically. According to Slate, Bring Her Back makes its predecessor “look like kid stuff,” signaling a darker, more mature vision. Unlike Talk to Me’s thrill-seeking teens and party-like atmosphere, this new film is a slow-burn character study, focusing on the emotional and psychological toll of its horrors. The directors themselves have described it as a departure, emphasizing a “psychological piece” over the frenetic energy of their debut.
A Story Shrouded in Mystery
Bring Her Back centers on a brother and sister, Andy (Billy Barratt) and Piper (Sora Wong), who uncover a terrifying ritual in the secluded home of their foster mother, Laura, played by two-time Oscar nominee Sally Hawkins. The plot, kept tightly under wraps, hints at demonic possession and familial trauma, with cryptic trailer phrases like “Let me out,” “Let her die,” and “Bring her back” setting a grim tone. Slate highlights the film’s daring choice to explore the internal life of Laura, an abusive figure whose specific sorrow—brought to life by Hawkins’ nuanced performance—challenges audiences to empathize with a deeply flawed character. This narrative complexity, paired with the Philippous’ knack for visceral horror, creates a uniquely unsettling experience.
Sally Hawkins Leads a Stellar Cast
Hawkins, known for her Oscar-nominated roles in The Shape of Water and Blue Jasmine, steps into rare horror territory with Bring Her Back. Her portrayal of Laura is described as both kooky and sinister, anchoring the film’s emotional weight. The ensemble, including young talents Billy Barratt (Mary Poppins Returns) and visually impaired newcomer Sora Wong, adds depth to the story’s focus on youth navigating supernatural dread. Supporting actors like Jonah Wren Phillips and Sally-Anne Upton round out a cast that’s poised to deliver performances as haunting as the film’s premise.
A New Benchmark for A24 Horror
A24 has built a reputation for arthouse horror that transcends cheap scares, with films like Hereditary, Midsommar, and The Witch setting a high bar. Bring Her Back fits squarely in this tradition, blending practical effects, grainy VHS-style found footage, and a chilling atmosphere. Early reviews praise its 96% Rotten Tomatoes score, with critics noting its ability to “revel in its chilling atmosphere and strong performances.” The film’s connection to Talk to Me—set in the same universe, possibly through shared demonology—adds intrigue for fans, though the Philippous keep the exact ties cryptic, promising subtle Easter eggs for keen-eyed viewers.
Why It’s Worth Watching
Bring Her Back isn’t just another horror flick; it’s a bold statement from filmmakers unafraid to challenge conventions. Its refusal to offer relief, as Slate notes, makes it “an unpleasant experience by design,” eschewing the dark humor of Talk to Me for unrelenting dread. Yet, this bleakness is tempered by its emotional depth, particularly in exploring grief and abuse through Laura’s character. For horror fans, the Philippous’ signature intensity—think convulsing bodies and ritualistic circles—delivers the scares, while cinephiles will appreciate the craft behind its slow-burn pacing and atmospheric dread.
What to Expect on May 30
As Bring Her Back hits theaters, expect a film that demands your attention and lingers long after the credits roll. Its release coincides with a wave of buzz, fueled by A24’s marketing (including mysterious promotional packages) and the Philippous’ growing cult status. Whether you’re drawn by Hawkins’ star power, the promise of a shared universe with Talk to Me, or simply A24’s track record, this film is set to be a defining moment in 2025’s horror landscape. Check local listings for showtimes, and brace yourself for a ritual you won’t soon forget.
Have you seen Talk to Me or plan to watch Bring Her Back? Share your thoughts in the comments below!