Horror fans' ears were raised by the unexpected release of "Together," a film written and directed by first-time director Michael Shanks, which focuses on the dynamics of emotional dependence in relationships. It stars Alison Brie and Dave Franco, who are romantically involved off-screen as well. The choice of these two actors, of course, wasn't a coincidence: choosing two actors who share, beyond their profession, a strong emotional bond was a key premise for Shanks from the earliest drafts of the script.
Available in Italy from October 1st, the film captivated audiences from its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival. The plot revolves around Tim and Millie, a couple who decide to leave the big city for the countryside and turn their lives around. In this new world, where Millie makes new connections at work and Tim tries to reinvent himself after a lackluster music career, the two encounter a dark force that seems to morbidly draw them to each other, jeopardizing not only their love but their very physical health.
Also impressive was the 100% positive rating from critics on the Rotten Tomatoes website. Among the many enthusiastic comments, Collider journalist Ross Bonaime stands out, writing: “In this wild horror romance, Brie and Franco explore a curiously strange concept in what is some of their best work yet. Shanks' script is a great blend of unrelenting horror and ridiculously uncomfortable moments.” Deadline's Glenn Garner praised the winning opportunity that allowed the couple to shine: “Alison Brie and husband Dave Franco have shared the screen in the past, but they truly sink into each other with chilling, heartfelt, and hilarious performances in writer-director Michael Shanks' debut feature.”
Interviewed by The Wrap while promoting the film, Brie and Franco offered a few more details about the idea behind “Together” and its body horror nature: “The film is about a codependent couple who have been together for over a decade. They're at a standstill and move to the countryside, far from their friends and community, but strange things happen to them there. It feels like a relationship drama, and it is, but it's also a full-blown horror film. The scenes are different from what you'd see in a traditional horror film. It's very much in the vein of body horror.”
Regarding the happy coincidence that allowed the two to co-star, Brie added: "I think it was the perfect time to do this project. We'd acted together before; Dave directed me in a couple of films; we wrote a film together. We've been together for over a decade, and so have the characters we play. We're very selective about the projects we act in together; we want them to make sense, and in this case, we think that's exactly what we're doing."
Delving deeper into the theme of codependency, Franco believes the film can be helpful to those questioning the health of their relationship: “We're not saying codependency is right or wrong. Alison and I could be considered codependent. We've been together for thirteen years and work together all the time. But, from our perspective, we think our relationship is very healthy. I think anyone who watches the film can project their own opinion and experience onto the two protagonists and decide whether or not their relationship is toxic.”
And, riding the wave of disturbing yet enlightening experiences like "The Substance," Brie shared her positive impressions after reading the script and the meticulous work done on the special effects: "We read the script and loved it. It felt unique. There was no hesitation. It was beautifully written and was a lot of fun to explore. It strikes a perfect chord with relationships and the fears that accompany them. I think people will enjoy watching the film, which is meant to be seen in a theater with an audience where you can laugh and jump in your seat together. I also think that, probably, when people leave the theater they will examine their own relationships and their views on monogamy."
