There’s horror, and then there’s a whole other level of terror. One viewing of Sasha Rainbow’s Grafted and one recognizes a keen insight into what inspires terror. Grafted is shockingly disturbing. The film’s unsettling imagery and haunting narrative make Grafted a standout in contemporary horror cinema. This film showcases Rainbow’s potential to carve out a permanent spot in the genre, solidified by her vision and storytelling prowess.
Wei’s Quest
It is the story of Wei, a curious girl whose father seems to adore her. Instruments and containers surround her in what appears to be a makeshift laboratory in the main room. More specifically, it appears to be the workspace of a disturbed scientist. The manner in which he is acting suggests he is working on something revolutionary, and when his phone rings, it becomes evident that he is fighting a disfiguring growth on his face. Tragedy strikes after the father makes efforts to fix his disfigurement. It leaves Wei with her father’s unfinished research. Her determination to continue her father’s research and help others suffering from disfigurement pushes her forward, and it engages the viewers. However, she soon learns that external forces have no regard for her or the work her father invested.
Wei’s Descent Into Darkness
This movie contains a vast amount of gore, from its chilling opening scene to its gruesome conclusion. The cinematographer meticulously zooms in on every detail. We, the viewers, watch as the protagonist-turned-antagonist painstakingly pulls at her skin, exposing more than bloodied subcutaneous tissues underneath.
There is an undercurrent of tragedy throughout the film. Wei is a complex yet oddly eccentric character. Her struggles—losing her father and facing ridicule and shame as an outcast—draw us in. Yet we are speculative of her brooding nature and the nature of isolationism. Cautiously, we root for her to overcome these obstacles, only to discover that her darkness is too deep. Our initial support turns to disgust as we realize the true nature of her actions.
The Dark Side of Science and Obsession
This is the power of art in film—it challenges our perceptions. It can make us pour forth our sympathies and then brutally retract them. This film is multi-dynamic. Not only does it tell Wei’s story, but it also exposes the insidious nature of certain societal constructs, like the formation of peer hierarchies in high school. These constructs can have damaging effects on developing minds.
I was genuinely taken aback by how remarkable Grafted turned out to be. The promotional poster, featuring its haunting yet understated visuals, immediately caught my eye. The straightforward title served as an ideal accompaniment. I was captivated by the cinematography and storytelling from beginning to end. For anyone seeking a grim and poignant tale, Grafted is now available for streaming on AMC+.
Uncut Diamonds 