Henge

The 2011 film Henge is a gripping, provocative exploration of the psychic phenomena and its outer fringes, packaged inside a domestic drama, cloaked with elements of body horror. Masterfully directed by Hajime Ohata, it unfolds the tale of a loving couple whose life goes spiraling down a nightmarish path after the husband starts to undergo a chilling transformation. With remarkable performances from Kazunari Aizawa, Aki Morita, and Teruhiko Nobukuni, Henge portrays the extent of sacrificial love and loyalty while plunging you into a surreal world that plays on your innate human fears and curiosities.

The story is set around a young, married couple named Yoshiaki and Keiko, portrayed by Kazunari Aizawa and Aki Morita respectively. They lead a somewhat ordinary life until Yoshiaki begins to suffer from an unexplained illness that causes severe seizures. Yoshiaki's episodes soon grow more severe, and his condition worsens, but the two remain hopeful that they can navigate the storm and find a return to normality.

But as fate would have it, things take a perplexing twist, the ordinary suddenly turns extraordinary, pushing the boundaries of reality as we know it. The seizures mutate into something far more disquieting, as Yoshiaki begins transforming into a grotesque, otherworldly creature. The tranquility of domestic life gives way to a chilling fear that gradually permeates their lives, extending beyonf theirs to their alarmed, largely helpless friends and even desperate doctors, featuring Teruhiko Nobukuni.

Despite the horror encircling Yoshiaki, Keiko remains steadfastly at his side, embodying the age-old vows of - in sickness and in health. She bravely faces the dreadful reality of her husband's metamorphosis. Aki Morita's mature performance as the devoted wife who clings onto the remnants of her husband's humanity is one of the standout elements of the movie, matched by Kazunari Aizawa’s intense portrayal as Yoshiaki, a man caught in the terrifying grip of something inexplicable.

Yet, the spiritual dimension of this film cannot be overlooked amidst the horror. Underneath the graphic depictions and alarming transformation, there lies a tale of unconditional love, loyalty, and acceptance. The storyline subtly questions the depth one is willing to endure for the sake of love, despite the unknown or irrational. It renews the viewer's perspective on notions of normality, blurring the lines between the familiar and the foreign.

Director Hajime Ohata borrows from a diverse range of genres, blending elements from psychological thrillers, domestic dramas, and body horror to magnify the eerie atmosphere. Yet, he effortlessly maintains a sense of sympathy and understanding for the characters, despite the gruesome outlook.

Equally impressive is the cinematography, with its combination of claustrophobic indoor scenes and dystopian outdoor shots that perfectly depict the terrors and confusion of Yoshiaki and Keiko’s closed-off world. The striking use of lighting, shadows, and reflections further enhances the unsettling mood of the film.

The soundscape is another intricate, thought-provoking aspect of the film. Poised and meticulously chosen, the innovative music, combined with eerie silence and unsettling sound effects, creates a truly gothic atmosphere.

In the world of Henge, there is as much a commentary on the frailty of human existence as there is an homage to monstrous body horror. Professor Nobukuni's performance adds another layer of gravity to the film, bringing a sense of the scientific world's intimidation towards face unsolvable mysteries.

Henge is an exceptional creation that dares to contemporize the classic tropes of horror movies and broach intricate, thought-provoking themes that lie at the intersection of human reality and the supernatural. The movie is not for the faint of heart, but for those who appreciate a differing take on horror and can revel in the unexplained mysteries of life, it’s an unforgettable ride.

Despite the monstrous, Henge also shows us love, loyalty, and sacrifice. In the world of Henge, love remains not just in the ordinary but also extends within the realms of the extraordinary. It’s an unconventional tale of horror imbued with a strong emotional core, demanding attention long after the credits roll.