Cast
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Crew
Director
- Mike Ho
Writer
- Blyth Kemp
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Horror/Thriller film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Persona presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Mike Ho brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2024, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Persona took approximately 12 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 101 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 153 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1991 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 197 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2024, when this film is released:
- Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Persona shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ghosts of Mars, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Persona subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Kalifornia and The Thing from Another World explore similar territory, Persona stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 3, 2024
- Runtime: 1h 41m
