The Voices (2020), directed by Alexis Jacknow, is a darkly comedic horror film that blends elements of psychological thriller with absurdity to explore complex themes like mental illness, loneliness, and the desperate need for human connection. Starring Angela Bettis in the lead role, the film provides a unique, unsettling look at the inner workings of a troubled mind. It challenges viewers to consider how mental health can affect one’s perception of reality, all while delivering an intense and surreal viewing experience.

The story revolves around the character of Gerry, played by Angela Bettis, who leads an isolated and seemingly mundane life. However, her world is turned upside down when she begins hearing voices that seem to come from the objects and animals around her. The voices encourage her to commit increasingly dangerous and irrational acts, blurring the line between reality and delusion. As Gerry’s behavior becomes more erratic, the audience is taken on a psychological journey that highlights the fragility of the human mind and the impact of isolation on one’s mental health.

One of the most striking aspects of The Voices is its ability to balance dark humor with horror. While the story delves into heavy themes like mental illness and loneliness, it also has a sense of absurdity that provides moments of levity. The film uses humor to highlight the internal chaos that Gerry experiences, making her actions both disturbing and strangely comical. This juxtaposition between horror and humor keeps the audience on edge, never quite knowing whether to laugh or be horrified by what they are witnessing.

Angela Bettis delivers a standout performance as Gerry, capturing the character’s descent into madness with nuance and depth. Her portrayal of a woman torn between her desires for connection and her growing detachment from reality is both compelling and heartbreaking. Bettis’ ability to evoke empathy for her character, despite her increasingly erratic behavior, is one of the film’s greatest strengths. The supporting cast, including actors like Jerry (played by Jesse L. Martin), further adds to the dynamic, with each character representing different facets of human connection and disconnection.

The film’s visual style is another important aspect of its storytelling. Director Alexis Jacknow uses a mix of surreal, dream-like sequences and grounded, realistic moments to create a world that is both familiar and deeply unsettling. The use of color and lighting enhances the psychological tension, reinforcing Gerry’s growing paranoia and confusion. The objects and animals that speak to her are rendered in a way that makes the audience question what is real and what is imagined, amplifying the horror of her deteriorating mental state.

In conclusion, The Voices (2020) is a gripping and thought-provoking film that masterfully blends dark humor, psychological horror, and absurdity. Through its unique storytelling and Angela Bettis’ captivating performance, the film offers a haunting exploration of mental illness, loneliness, and the human need for connection. Its ability to navigate between comedy and horror, while tackling heavy themes, makes it a standout entry in the psychological thriller genre. The Voices challenges viewers to confront the complexities of the human psyche, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll.v