| ‘No organ is constant as regards either function or position, … sex organs sprout anywhere,… rectums open, defecate and close, … the entire organism changes color and consistency in split-second adjustments.’ |
In a poignant nod to William Burroughs’ words, No organ is constant as regards either function or position, Hanna Bergholm’s Hatching aptly captures the visceral horror of a young girl’s transformation into womanhood. Twelve-year-old Tinja, a budding gymnast, undergoes a profound physical metamorphosis as she prepares for her first competition. The film’s opening scene, with Tinja’s body contorting in ways that defy human limits, evokes a Lovecraftian creature rather than the obedient daughter her mother desires.
Set in Finland, Hatching revolves around Tinja, her Mother, a vlogging enthusiast, her Father, and her younger brother Matias. Their household appears idyllic on the surface, curated for the world of social media. However, this facade shatters when a blackbird intrudes, disrupting their perfect world. Mother’s brutal response to the intruder forces Tinja to confront a darker, more real side of her parent.
This pivotal moment transforms Tinja, drawing her into a realm of monstrosity, rebellion, and empowerment. She becomes the protector of an egg laid by the intruding bird, leading to the birth of a creature that embodies everything her Mother fears: grotesque, chaotic, and uncontrollable. Tinja’s bond with the creature blurs the lines between their identities, propelling a haunting and transformative journey.
Hatching masterfully delves into the horror of adolescent transition, challenging heteronormative ideals while juxtaposing the allure of monstrosity with the desire for empowerment. Bergholm’s film immerses viewers in a haunting exploration of the complexities of womanhood, both beautiful and terrifying.
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2 responses to “‘Hatching’ Review: A Horrifying Metamorphosis into Womanhood”
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