Review of Her Private Hell – ‘An utter disappointment’

In “Her Private Hell,” directed by Nicholas Winding Refn, set in a misty, futuristic city, a film star named Elle (Sophie Thatcher) and soldier Private K (Charles Melton) confront a supernatural serial killer dubbed the Leatherman. This visually striking film continues Refn’s trend of exploring unrelatable narratives, melding surrealism and metaphysical themes with a focus on psychosexual horror. However, the film often prioritizes style over substance, leading to a confusing and tedious viewing experience.

Elle’s journey through this eerie landscape, characterized by garish colors and twisted character dynamics, hints at deeper themes like the cycle of abuse and the complexities of filmmaking. Despite nods to classic horror and fairytales, the plot and characters can feel incoherent, reducing women to visual objects rather than fully developed characters.

Critics highlight Refn’s impressive visual style, from ambitious production design to striking cinematography, yet lament that the substance fails to match its aesthetic. The film’s exploration of themes like the male gaze and fetishism feels both provocative and superficial. Over a lengthy runtime, “Her Private Hell” teeters precariously between captivating and insufferable, often acquiring the latter designation. While visually arresting, the film ultimately feels like “glossy nonsense,” leaving viewers with an experience as tedious as watching paint dry, devoid of meaningful engagement. Refn may be a master of style, but this film struggles to resonate intellectually.

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