In Our Blood has a lot going on. The Fantasia World Premiere begins as a documentary about a woman meeting her estranged mother. When Sam (Alana Ubach, Euphoria) suddenly disappears, her daughter Emily (Brittany O’Grady, The White Lotus) decides to look for her. This leads to a shocking and horrifying discovery.
As popular as found footage is in horror, it is not seen often in other genres. There are exceptions – 2012’s Project X is a comedy – but they usually deal in ghosts, witches, and the supernatural. In Our Blood begins as a family drama. This means there is more depth than is usually found in these types of movies. In a sub-genre that is filled with characters that are unlikeable, it is refreshing to see someone that elicits empathy.
O’Grady is great in the role of Emily. She is determined almost to a fault. In her initial meeting with her mother, she tries to be distant while making her film. However, the past has scarred her and it is not long before she breaks down. As the plot progresses, this continues to happen. Emily is headstrong in what she wants to do, which leads to rash decisions. O’Grady plays Emily in a grounded manner that makes her relatable.
When In Our Blood transitions into a thriller, it is palatable due to this strong performance and the down to earth writing. We want Emily to find her mother because we care for her and we want her to heal. The mystery is never put in the background, but it is the people that audiences really care about.
The full on horror climax will catch many off-guard. There are plenty of hints along the way, but In Our Blood just does not seem like it is telling that type of story. It is a chaotic ending that ties into the themes of addiction and family, but may end up being a little too fantastic for its otherwise very human story.
The Fantasia International Film Festival takes places from July 18 – August 4. Check out the latest news HERE
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