(Re)Nascer

Laura Moss' engrossing medical thriller is an update on the regeneration of the dead theme. Pathologist Dr. Rose Casper (a determined Marin Ireland) has been experimenting with reviving dead tissue of animals. Opportunity knocks one day when a six year old girl Lila (A. J. Lister) is wheeled into the morgue. Dr. Casper springs into action making the dead child her biggest experiment yet. Things get infinitely more complicated when Lila's mother, Celie (a fierce Judy Reyes), finds out. Celie happens to be a nurse.

What makes Moss and co-writer Brenden J. O'Brien's screenplay so involving is that it focuses more on parenting and morality than the experiment itself. The story sets up a fascinating dynamic between the two medical professionals. As Lila's mother, Celie, obviously has a maternal attachment to her daughter, but, there is also a symbiotic relationship that develops between the Creator and her Creation. Dr. Casper is fully committed to her work, even using her own body as a vessel for her experiments. Still, a mother's bond is inviolate. It becomes more than just a test of wills, everything is at stake for both women -- even at the expense of the Lila's unfortunate soul.

Moss' direction is gripping and the script plays out in an intelligent direction save for one miss-step which seems to be included as if to justify the "horror film" label. It does get gruesome, but never for it's own sake. The basic theme, of course, goes back to Mary Shelley's Frankenstein myth. There are no significant male characters. It's a powerful collaboration between Moss and her four main actresses (Breeda Wool plays an expectant mother who gets caught up in the crossfire). Ireland and Reyes are exceptional as the dueling women at the center of the tale.

BIRTH/REBIRTH updates an old tale. The storytelling isn't the most innovative, but it's smartly told and genuinely thought-provoking - not to mention disturbing.

"Birth/Rebirth" offers a unique and thought-provoking cinematic experience, deserving of a 7-star rating. The film delves into the complex concept of identity and existence with a fresh perspective.

Set in a world where individuals can undergo a mysterious process of rebirth, the narrative navigates the consequences and moral dilemmas that arise from such technology. The plot is layered and keeps you engaged throughout.

The film's strength lies in its talented cast and their ability to convey the emotional weight of the story. Performances are commendable, particularly in scenes that require deep introspection.

Visually, "Birth/Rebirth" is a treat, with striking cinematography and a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. The film's score complements the eerie tone, adding depth to the viewing experience.

While the film explores profound themes, it occasionally leaves questions unanswered, which might frustrate some viewers. However, it also encourages discussion and contemplation, making it a conversation starter.

In summary, "Birth/Rebirth" is a modern exploration of identity that challenges the boundaries of science fiction. It may not provide all the answers, but it certainly raises intriguing questions that will linger in your thoughts long after the credits roll.

It's not often that the horror genre throws up an original idea these days, but this film is a rare example demonstrating that it is still possible. It is a twisted and disturbing tale that avoids falling into established genre cliches. Not an easy film to watch, especially for the squeamish, with lots of blood and body parts on display. But for those with strong constitutions, the story is gradually revealed, drawing the viewer ever more deeply into the twisted plot and the increasingly mad behaviours of the two lead characters. The acting is very good, somehow managing to engage the viewer whilst at the same time revealing the repellent nature of their actions.

Oh my word. This is the type of movie that you just stare at the screen after it's all done and ask yourself, what in the world did I just watched......but in a good way. The story for me was brilliant, original and surprising.

The bloody beginning got me really curious but after half way in, I was still wondering what this was movie about. Was it about illegal organ trade market? Was it about a mad doctor eating organs who does IVF on herself? It was just weird and naturally all fingers were pointing at this doctor, not knowing the person I thought would be the antagonist wasn't. It's a really smart but wierd story. I loved the acting and the characters.

Definitely not for the inpatient. This is a movie that requires your full attention inorder to truly appreciate what is going on. Give it a moment if you love drama/thrillers.

It is not a true horror, but it is medically graphic, so be warned. Both lead actors do a good job, taking their respective characters in two long gradual arcs. One from an emotionally cold, socially marooned, savant existence, to eventually showing some small instances of warmth and connection, possibly even yearning?

The other, from a warm, caring, nurse, mother, to being morally complicit in their dubious scheme to cheat death.

Tension is driven along by good editing and an idiosyncratic, edgy soundtrack, that draws you in to the point where you yourself feel complicit, as you root for the pair, in their dastardly, if well intentioned, endeavours. It is however broken at a few points with some, I am sure, deliberate humour.

It could have had the last 8 minutes or so cut off to make a tidy 90 minutes. As by this time it had tailed off into borderline nonsense.