Relic

Movie Trailer

Release Date
July 10, 2020

Genre
Horror, Drama, Mystery

Cast & Crew

• Emily Mortimer as Kay
• Robyn Nevin as Edna
• Bella Heathcote as Sam

Director
Natalie Erika James

Other Movies Director is Known For:

• Directorial debut (previously directed short films)

Producer
Jake Gyllenhaal, Riva Marker, Anna McLeish, Sarah Shaw

Writer
Natalie Erika James, Christian White

Budget
$1.1 million

Production Company
Carver Films, Nine Stories Productions, AGBO

Running Time
89 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R

Content Advisory

• Disturbing images
• Psychological horror
• Themes of aging, dementia, and family

Movie Story
“Relic” is a psychological horror film that delves into the unsettling experience of watching a loved one deteriorate due to dementia, intertwining themes of family trauma and supernatural elements. The story follows three generations of women: Edna (Robyn Nevin), the elderly matriarch; her daughter Kay (Emily Mortimer); and Kay’s daughter, Sam (Bella Heathcote).

When Edna mysteriously disappears from her home in the rural Australian countryside, Kay and Sam return to the family home to search for her. After several days, Edna reappears but seems profoundly changed, exhibiting signs of severe memory loss and erratic behavior. As Kay and Sam try to care for Edna, they begin to notice strange and increasingly disturbing occurrences within the house, which seems to be decaying alongside Edna’s mental state.

As the film progresses, it becomes clear that the house itself is a manifestation of Edna’s deteriorating mind, with its shifting walls, dark corners, and inexplicable mold symbolizing the inescapable decline of her condition. Kay and Sam are forced to confront not only the physical and emotional toll of Edna’s illness but also their own fears and unresolved issues as they grapple with the reality of aging and mortality.

“Relic” is a deeply atmospheric film that uses horror to explore the complexities of familial bonds and the devastating effects of dementia. The film’s slow-burn pacing and eerie, claustrophobic setting create an unsettling atmosphere that builds to a haunting and emotional climax.

Special Effects
The special effects in “Relic” are used sparingly but effectively, with an emphasis on creating a haunting and oppressive atmosphere. The film relies heavily on practical effects, including the gradual decay of the house, the spreading mold, and the shadowy, labyrinthine corridors that seem to twist and close in on the characters. The supernatural elements are understated, with the horror stemming more from the psychological and emotional terror of watching a loved one’s mind unravel. The visual effects are used to subtly enhance the film’s themes, creating a sense of dread that permeates the entire narrative.

Box Office Performance
“Relic” was released during the COVID-19 pandemic, which limited its theatrical run. However, it gained significant attention through digital and on-demand platforms, where it was well-received by both critics and audiences. The film became a standout in the horror genre for its unique approach to blending psychological horror with emotional depth, particularly in its exploration of aging and dementia.

Filming Locations

• Victoria, Australia

Notable Quotes

• “Everything decays.” – Edna
• “When was the last time you saw her?” – Kay

Behind-the-Scenes
“Relic” marks the feature directorial debut of Natalie Erika James, who drew inspiration from her own experiences with her grandmother’s dementia. The film’s script, co-written by James and Christian White, was crafted to reflect the deeply personal and universal themes of aging, memory, and familial duty. The house in the film plays a crucial role as both a setting and a metaphor, with production design and cinematography working together to create an environment that feels both familiar and nightmarish. The performances of the lead actresses, particularly Robyn Nevin as the deteriorating Edna, were central to conveying the film’s emotional impact.

Awards

• Nominated for AACTA Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role (Emily Mortimer)
• Nominated for Australian Film Critics Association Award: Best Supporting Actress (Robyn Nevin)

Final Verdict
“Relic” is a haunting and emotionally resonant horror film that transcends the genre’s typical conventions. Natalie Erika James’s direction and the strong performances from the cast make it a compelling exploration of the horrors of dementia and the impact it has on families. The film’s atmospheric tension, combined with its poignant themes, creates a powerful and unsettling experience that lingers long after the credits roll. “Relic” is a must-watch for fans of psychological horror and those who appreciate films that tackle complex emotional subjects through a supernatural lens.

IMDb Rating
6.0/10