Separation

Movie Trailer

Release Date
April 30, 2021

Genre
Horror, Thriller, Drama

Cast & Crew

• Rupert Friend as Jeff Vahn
• Violet McGraw as Jenny Vahn
• Mamie Gummer as Maggie Vahn
• Madeline Brewer as Samantha Nally
• Brian Cox as Paul Rivers

Director
William Brent Bell

Other Movies Director is Known For

• The Boy (2016)
• The Devil Inside (2012)
• Wer (2013)

Producer
Jordan Yale Levine, Jordan Beckerman, Russ Posternak, Jesse Korman, Clay Pecorin

Writer
Nick Amadeus, Josh Braun

Budget
$10 million (estimated)

Production Company
RainMaker Films, Yale Productions, Bellco Media

Running Time
107 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R

Content Advisory

• Strong language
• Intense horror sequences
• Violence

Movie Story
Separation is a horror-drama that explores the psychological and supernatural repercussions of a fractured family. The film centers around Jeff Vahn, a struggling comic book artist who is navigating a bitter separation from his wife, Maggie, while trying to be a good father to their eight-year-old daughter, Jenny.

After Maggie is tragically killed in a hit-and-run accident, Jeff and Jenny are left to pick up the pieces of their lives. However, their mourning is soon interrupted by a series of eerie and inexplicable events that suggest Maggie’s spirit may not have left them entirely. Jenny begins to speak of her “mother” visiting her at night, and Jeff starts experiencing terrifying visions that blur the line between reality and nightmare.

As the supernatural occurrences intensify, Jeff suspects that the dark characters from his own comic books, which were inspired by Jenny’s childhood drawings, may be coming to life. These eerie figures, known as “The Grisly Kin,” seem to be haunting their home, bringing with them an overwhelming sense of dread and danger.

With the help of Jenny’s nanny, Samantha, Jeff delves into the mystery surrounding Maggie’s death and the terrifying manifestations that now plague their lives. The film builds tension as Jeff struggles to protect his daughter from the malevolent forces at play, all while grappling with his guilt over his failing marriage and his unresolved feelings for Maggie.

Separation explores themes of grief, guilt, and the complexities of parenthood, using horror elements to amplify the emotional turmoil of its characters. The film combines psychological horror with supernatural elements, creating a tense and unsettling atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge.

Special Effects
The film utilizes a mix of practical effects and CGI to bring the supernatural elements to life, particularly the creepy, life-sized puppets and the sinister figures known as “The Grisly Kin.” These effects are integral to the film’s eerie atmosphere, contributing to the overall sense of dread and suspense.

Box Office Performance
Separation had a limited theatrical release and was met with mixed reviews from critics. The film appealed to fans of supernatural horror, particularly those interested in horror films that delve into psychological themes. While it did not achieve significant box office success, it found an audience through streaming platforms.

Filming Locations

• New York City, New York, USA

Notable Quotes

• “There’s something in the house, something that’s not supposed to be here.” – Jeff Vahn
• “Your mother’s still with us, Jenny. In more ways than one.” – Samantha Nally

Behind-the-Scenes
Director William Brent Bell is known for his work in the horror genre, and Separation marks another entry in his exploration of supernatural themes. The film’s production took place primarily in New York City, with much of the tension and atmosphere created through its urban setting. The character designs for “The Grisly Kin” were inspired by the disturbing and grotesque drawings of Jenny, adding a layer of psychological horror to the film.

Awards

• No notable awards.

Final Verdict
Separation is a dark and eerie horror film that combines supernatural elements with a deeply emotional story about grief and family. Rupert Friend delivers a solid performance as a father struggling to protect his daughter while confronting his own demons. While the film may not stand out among other entries in the horror genre, its unsettling atmosphere and unique blend of psychological and supernatural horror make it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre.

IMDb Rating
4.7/10