Faye (2022)

The death of a loved one can trigger a wave of seemingly inescapable pain and grief for those left behind. The reality of loss can be devastating, with deep despair as the days pass without the beloved person there to be with them. Failing to find comfort in memories or familiar routines can make the grieving process even more challenging. This is the subject matter of the psychological drama Faye, though it is portrayed as a supernatural horror movie.

Faye is a difficult film to categorize; on the one hand, it is an impressive indie film that follows a woman's descent into madness after a series of tragic events. On the other hand, it is frustrating because it feels like the story is being told through the lens of a horror movie, with the main character Faye being haunted by a demonic version of herself. A lot of effort was put into making this film, as it is a one-woman show. Sarah Zanotti does a great job of portraying a woman who is grieving and struggling to cope with her guilt. However, how the story is presented makes it difficult to appreciate the character's journey fully.

Faye is a frustrating psychological horror movie because it lacks clear supernatural elements. Faye is the only genuinely haunted presence in the cabin, and her struggle to deal with grief and loss is the most frightening thing.

Faye arrives at the cabin to work on her latest book, but she is constantly interrupted by phone calls from her publisher. We learn that Faye is a self-help guru with visible scarring on her face, and she talks to somebody we can't see. The publisher demands Faye make some progress on the book and offers her a week of peace at the cabin to get work done. However, Faye is constantly bothered by phone calls, leading to thoughts of the movie 'I Spit on Your Grave.'

Faye is struggling with alcoholism and depression following the death of her husband in a car accident. She begins to see a ghostly figure in the cabin she is staying and believes she is responsible for her husband's death. Faye, reeling from the loss of her husband, becomes consumed by grief, depression, and alcoholism. She is plagued by visions and starts to believe that her inner demons are trying to take over. In a desperate attempt to regain control, Faye takes action against her mind.

Faye is a profoundly moving and nuanced portrayal of grief, told through the perspective of its titular character. The film is structured around her narrating her experiences with anguish in a diary-like format while sitting under a spotlight like a stand-up comedian. The film is an excellent example of how grief can be explored through cinema and is sure to inspire film students and directors alike. The film also has the potential to be adapted into a successful play due to its flexible structure and relatable themes.

The film Faye is the first US-made feature film to feature a performance from a single actress. The film is a horror movie that will appeal to fans of the genre. However, those expecting traditional monsters and madness may be disappointed.