Rebecca Hall is one of the most underappreciated actors in movies during the last fifteen years. Her prescence is undeniable, and her range is equally impressive. As a matter of fact, during the screening of Resurrection, I realized that it is pretty rare that I witness Hall speaking in her natural accent. That is only one clue as to how much talent she has. I have watched so many films where I absolutely believed that she is American.
Well, this gifted British actor, once again, proves her worth in a movie that showcases her acting prowess, despite the weaknesses of the screenplay. Resurrection is actually a solid psychological thriller, but some of the filmmakers choices do get a bit overzealous. However, make no mistake, Rebecca Hall is definitely in top form, as those who know her should most certainly expect.
Hall stars as Margaret, a seemingly strong and successful career in the biotech industry. While she appears to have a great handle on her life and work, her history will always continue to haunt her. This aspect of her past becomes apparent when Margaret notices that her toxic and abusive ex-boyfriend David (Tim Roth) begins appearing in her various moments of her life. Every time she manages to run into him, this awakens some very strong feelings and emotions that often manifest in multiple irrational thoughts and actions.
Margaret finally confronts David, and cannot help, but assume her role as the submissive victim to David’s sadistic whims. This begins to take its toll on her career and her relationship with her daughter Abbie (Grace Kaufman). As Margaret struggles with this sick game David is playing, she continues to breakdown in some horribly frightening ways.
Written and directed by Andrew Seamans, Resurrection is absolutely a horrific experience, as it should be. His solid direction and the incredible performance by Hall give the audience the experience from Margaret’s psyche and should be completely caught up in her mental meltdown. While this mostly works for most of the movie, Seamans seems to have some trouble with the subtlety of this relationship. Also, some bizarre and wild choices in the story often distract from the full impact of this type of story.
Still, I cannot say anything bad about Rebecca Hall’s tremendous performance or the acting of Tim Roth who is also amazingly frightening as Margaret’s tormentor. I also must give some respect to young actor Grace Kaufman, who performs exceptionally as Margaret’s beleaguered daughter Abbie. Her fears of what her mother is becoming, along with her concern for her mother’s mental state, comes across as genuine.
While the filmmaker’s choices for the direction of this story go a bit too far, I still recommend this movie as a wonderful showcase of impressive acting and high tension. Anyone who has been in a traumatic abusive relationship will definitely relate to Margaret’s plight. And might have some problems facing these scenarios. If anything can be taken away from this insane dose of horror, one thing continues to ring true. Rebecca Hall is one of Hollywood’s most gifted thespians working today.