Appendage: A Gooey, Insightful Horror-Comedy

Directed by: Anna Zlokovic  

Starring: Hadley Robinson, Desmin Borges, Kausar Mohammed, Brandon Mychal Smith, Deborah Rennard, Emily Hampshire

**Rating:** ★★★★☆

Hulu’s latest horror-comedy, "Appendage," directed by Anna Zlokovic, offers a delightfully bizarre exploration of inner demons and mental health. With a perfect blend of humor and horror, this film dives deep into the psyche of its protagonist while delivering an entertaining and insightful experience.

Plot Summary:

Hannah (Hadley Robinson) is a fashion designer teetering on the brink of burnout. Her stressful life, marked by the unreasonable demands of her boss Cristean (Desmin Borges) and a tumultuous relationship with her mother Stacy (Deborah Rennard), takes a grotesque turn when a sinister creature—her "appendage"—emerges from a birthmark on her side. This creature, looking like a smashed-up jellybean with googly eyes and slimy skin, embodies her deepest insecurities and fears, taunting her with cruel observations and malicious intent.

As Hannah struggles to balance her career and personal life, her appendage becomes increasingly dominant, pushing her toward paranoia and isolation. Her friendship with Esther (Kausar Mohammed) and relationship with boyfriend Kaelin (Brandon Mychal Smith) come under strain as the appendage fuels her doubts and fears. In a twist, Hannah discovers she's not alone in her struggle. She meets others with similar appendages, controlled through a daily serum. Among them is Claudia (Emily Hampshire), a mysterious figure who appears to be a confidant but harbors her own agenda.

Themes and Execution:

"Appendage" masterfully addresses the psychological battles many face, personifying them in a way that’s both horrifying and darkly comedic. Zlokovic's use of puppetry for the appendage adds a visceral, almost silly element to the creature, making it a tangible representation of Hannah’s inner turmoil. The film oscillates between sincere emotional beats and outright absurdity, reminiscent of '80s horror-comedy classics by directors like John Carpenter and Larry Cohen.

Performances:

Hadley Robinson shines as Hannah, delivering a nuanced performance that captures the character’s vulnerability and growing strength. Her interactions with the appendage are both chilling and humorous, making the creature a compelling antagonist. The supporting cast, including Kausar Mohammed and Emily Hampshire, provide strong performances that enhance the film's emotional depth and comedic undertones.

Visuals and Direction:

Zlokovic's direction keeps the narrative engaging and the visuals striking. The practical effects used for the appendage are effective, adding to the film's gritty, tactile feel. Scenes like Hannah picking at her nails are portrayed with intense close-ups and escalating edits, heightening the film’s gross-out factor without losing its charm.

Cultural and Psychological Insight:

"Appendage" is not just a monster movie; it’s a commentary on mental health and the inner voices that many grapple with. Zlokovic’s script, co-written with a keen understanding of psychological struggles, offers a fresh take on the horror-comedy genre. The film's exploration of Hannah’s mental state, especially her fear of isolation and failure, is both relatable and thought-provoking.

Conclusion:

"Appendage" is a refreshingly original horror-comedy that successfully balances genuine scares with sharp humor and emotional depth. Anna Zlokovic’s debut feature is a testament to her promising talent, delivering a film that’s as insightful as it is entertaining. Whether you’re drawn to the psychological aspects or the grotesque humor, "Appendage" offers a unique cinematic experience that’s sure to resonate with a wide audience.

Now streaming on Hulu, "Appendage" is a must-watch for fans of inventive horror-comedies that leave a lasting impact.