I can claim no familiarity with the source material, but judging this film strictly on its own merits, I'm impressed with how it builds its mystery. Some aspects of the plot feel rather common - Rachel's background, for example - yet it finds success in slowly assembling a narrative swirling together dark fantasy, supernatural horror, and thriller vibes. The underlying mythology of the tale is fascinating, and the scene writing bears suitable variety while always carrying wonderfully dark atmosphere. All the effects look fantastic - blood, gore, and special makeup not least of all - and between these and the fundamental arrangement of some scenes, some moments manage to be distinctly chilling as they present. To that point, hats off to filmmaker Jaume Balagueró for tight, expert direction, and Pablo Rosso's cinematography is also terrific. Moreover, it's quite the cast assembled for this very international co-production, and everyone gives strong performances leaning into the grim airs and bringing the story to life. I wasn't sure what to expect as I started watching, but I quite like 'Muse.'
To some degree the narrative writing doesn't feel altogether complete, as though we're seeing more of the bare-bones structure of the tale, and possibly fragments thereof, instead of its totality. From one element to another the screenplay doesn't necessarily seem full of the rich detail that would truly help the viewing experience to stand out and be memorable. With that said, it's to the credit of Balagueró and co-writer Fernando Navarro - and certainly the cast and crew - that the feature is still as engaging and compelling as it is despite such relative lack. Between the horror violence, grisly imagery, and the more grand and sinister notions underpinning the plot, as well as all the hard work put into the picture generally, there's plenty to keep the viewer actively attentive through to the end.
If my words don't seem especially enthused, well, take that as a reflection of the title itself. Don't get me wrong: this is very well made in every regard, the narrative is engrossing, the grim ambience is delightful, and I really like the cast. There's also nothing about 'Muse' that so greatly leaps to the forefront as to demand viewership, and unless you're a diehard fan of someone involved, there's perhaps no major reason to go out of your way for it. Nonetheless, it ably scratches the itch for genre fare, and maybe after all that's all it needs to do. Worth 100 minutes of your time? If you have the chance to watch, then I'd surely say so.
