‘My Sad Dead’ Review: An Urban Community Gets the Haunting It Deserves in Pablo Larraín’s Superb Modern Gothic

VeniceNews newsroom brief · 2h ago · 1 min read · via variety.com

Macabre and melancholy but suffused with a delicious absurdism that somehow doesn’t clog the arteries of its hopeful little heart, Pablo Larraín’s sprawling, peculiar, terrific “My Sad Dead” is about 20 things at once in every moment. It’s a ghost story, obviously, on account of

Pablo Larraín's "My Sad Dead" has landed in Venice, and it's clear that this modern gothic tale is exactly what the festival needs - a haunting, yet hopeful story that explores the complexities of urban community. The film's blend of macabre and melancholy elements, infused with a touch of absurdism, is a bold move, but one that pays off in Larraín's skilled hands.


The film's eclectic mix of themes and genres is a hallmark of Larraín's style, and "My Sad Dead" is no exception. By juggling multiple storylines and ideas at once, Larraín creates a sense of depth and richness that rewards close attention. As a master of atmospheric tension, Larraín is well-suited to the ghost story genre, and his use of Venice's unique setting will undoubtedly add to the film's eerie, unsettling ambiance.


As the festival continues, all eyes will be on whether "My Sad Dead" can translate its Venice success to wider audiences. With its unique blend of horror, drama, and social commentary, this film has the potential to resonate with viewers looking for something new and exciting. Keep an eye on the film's critical and commercial performance in the coming weeks - it could be a dark horse contender for awards season.

Originally reported by variety.com. VeniceNews adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.

Originally reported by variety.com. VeniceNews curates and briefs the culture, style & media stories that matter. Our editorial policy →
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