Released in 2019, Mary, a supernatural horror film directed by Michael Goi and available on Netflix, promised a chilling tale of a family haunted by a sinister presence aboard their newly acquired sailboat. While the film boasts a recognizable cast, including Gary Oldman and Jennifer Esposito, it ultimately falls short of delivering the truly terrifying experience it sets out to create.
A Troubled Voyage: Plot Summary
Mary follows David (Gary Oldman), a struggling fishing boat captain, and his wife, Sarah (Emily Mortimer), who are desperate to escape their financial woes. David sees an opportunity to turn their fortunes around when he purchases a derelict sailboat named "Mary" at auction. Hoping to restore the boat and charter it for fishing trips, he sets sail with Sarah and their two daughters, Lindsay (Stefania LaVie Owen) and Mary (Chloe Perrin). Unbeknownst to them, the "Mary" harbors a dark secret, and the family soon finds themselves caught in a terrifying supernatural maelstrom.
As they venture further out to sea, strange occurrences begin to plague the family. Whispers echo through the ship's hull, objects move on their own, and the youngest daughter, Mary, begins to exhibit increasingly disturbing behavior. Sarah becomes convinced that the boat is haunted, while David, initially skeptical, slowly comes to accept the terrifying reality they face. Their dream of a fresh start transforms into a desperate fight for survival against a malevolent force that seems intent on claiming them all.
Beneath the Surface: Character Analysis
Mary attempts to explore the psychological impact of grief and guilt on its characters. David is burdened by past failures and haunted by a previous tragedy at sea. Sarah, struggling with her own inner demons, becomes increasingly paranoid and unstable. The strained relationships within the family contribute to the escalating tension and amplify the sense of dread.
However, the character development falls somewhat flat, leaving the audience unable to fully connect with their struggles. Gary Oldman, despite his typically strong performance, is constrained by a thinly written character, and the rest of the cast struggles to elevate the material. While the family dynamic is meant to be a central theme, it often feels underdeveloped and unexplored.
Critical Reception and Audience Response
Mary received largely negative reviews from critics, with many citing its predictable plot, underdeveloped characters, and lack of genuine scares. The film relies heavily on jump scares and familiar horror tropes, failing to offer anything truly original or innovative. While some viewers found the atmosphere effectively creepy, the overall consensus was that the film failed to deliver on its potential.
Exploring the Themes of Grief, Guilt, and the Supernatural
The film attempts to delve into themes of grief, guilt, and the corrupting influence of the supernatural. The dilapidated state of the "Mary" itself serves as a metaphor for the family's brokenness and their desperate attempt to rebuild their lives. The haunting serves as a manifestation of their unresolved emotional trauma, but the connection between these elements isn't fully explored. The film hints at a deeper meaning, but never fully commits to exploring these themes in a satisfying way.
Comparing "Mary" to Other Oceanic Horror Films
Mary draws inspiration from other oceanic horror films like Triangle, Ghost Ship, and even elements of Stephen King's work. However, it falls short of achieving the same level of suspense or psychological depth. While the confined setting of the ship provides a claustrophobic atmosphere, the film fails to capitalize on this potential, resorting to predictable scares and a convoluted storyline.
Is "Mary" Worth Watching?
While Mary offers a glimpse of potential with its atmospheric setting and intriguing premise, it ultimately falls short of delivering a truly compelling horror experience. The underdeveloped characters, predictable plot, and reliance on generic scares prevent the film from reaching its full potential. However, if you are a fan of supernatural horror and are looking for something to watch on a casual evening, Mary might provide some mild entertainment. Just don't expect to be genuinely terrified.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mary (Netflix)
Is "Mary" based on a true story?
No, "Mary" is not based on a true story. It is a fictional work of horror.
Where was "Mary" filmed?
The film was primarily filmed in Alabama, USA.
Who directed "Mary"?
Michael Goi directed "Mary".
What is the rating for "Mary"?
"Mary" is rated R for language and some violence.
Is "Mary" suitable for all audiences?
Due to its horror themes and some violent scenes, "Mary" is not recommended for younger viewers or those sensitive to horror.