In the labyrinthine depths of cinematic exploration, “Ash” directed by Flying Lotus emerges as a multifaceted jewel, presenting audiences not merely with a haunting horror narrative but also a lens through which we can scrutinize humanity’s unsettling tendencies. With Eiza Gonzáles as astronaut Riya, the film thrusts viewers into a world where memory is as fragmented and uncertain as the characters themselves. The visceral terror begins when Riya awakens on a desolate planet, surrounded by the remnants of her fellow crew members—an auditory and visual nightmare that illustrates the fragility of memory and identity.
What stands out immediately is the film’s ability to create an atmosphere thick with suspense. The opening scenes of chaos give us little time to acclimatize, paralleling Riya’s disorientation. Rather than merely serving as a backdrop, space becomes an active character, intensifying the feelings of isolation and dread. This portrayal is not just effective; it serves as a commentary on the alienation that many face today—a mirror reflecting our societal disintegration.
Colonization and Disinformation: A Deep Dive
Underneath its thrilling surface, “Ash” tackles critical social themes that are disturbingly relevant. The narrative threads itself into the fabric of colonization, mirroring a historical pattern where humanity encroaches upon environments devoid of their comprehension. Riya’s recollections act as poignant reminders of our failures, showing how those in power frequently manipulate perceptions to further their own ends. The phrase “Let’s not f*ck it up this time” resonates not just as a plea for caution but as a critique of generations who dismissed the lessons of the past.
As the base’s malfunction echoes through the sterile environment, the film offers dual allegories. Not only does it signify the breakdown of a technologically advanced world, but it also reflects the degradation of our societal fabric propelled by misinformation. The characters become puppets of their surroundings, making desperate choices that culminate in self-destruction—another layer that engages viewers to reassess the fabric of their reality.
A Trendy Visual and Auditory Experiment
The score, crafted by the director himself, encapsulates this sensory experience. Lotus, known for his innovative musical style, intertwines a soundscape that pulsates with fear and confusion, elevating the visual elements of the film. The striking visuals—including vibrant alien landscapes and surreal images—underscore the disintegration of sanity as Riya grapples with her role in a seemingly doomed mission. While some might argue that the artistic choice to utilize AI-generated effects is a crutch, it aligns perfectly with the film’s themes of blurred lines between reality and hallucination. In this way, it mirrors contemporary discussions about the rise of AI in art, reflecting an unsettling future where truth can become as elusive as memory itself.
While “Ash” may heavily draw from predecessors like “Alien” and Carpenter’s “The Thing,” it stands independently as a powerful commentary on existential horror and human folly. This film challenges viewers to confront their fears—both cosmic and terrestrial—forcing an unsettling introspection on the consequences of our actions as we navigate the dark, uncharted territories of existence.