Instead of couple’s therapy, try taking a trip to see “Together” instead.

“Together” follows Tim and Millie, a couple who encounters a mysterious, unnatural force that threatens to corrupt their lives, love and flesh.

A Relationship at the Core

At its heart, “Together” is a relationship drama. The horror runs rampant over the final 30 minutes, but most of the film is dedicated to examining Tim and Millie’s fractured relationship. Horror movies are most effective when they develop realistic characters. “Together” does just that, spending large portions of the runtime exploring this couple – inside and out.

Because of this, it’s very much a slow burn. Even with a 102-minute runtime, the film feels both overlong and rushed all in one. It takes a comedic approach in glossing over many important aspects, while also dedicating a lot of time to seemingly minuscule moments. However, by the time the end is near, all of these elements combine into something meaningful.

Dave Franco is able to dive deeply into his range, in a character that both feels trapped yet wants to stay in place. Many emotional moments are heightened by his performance. Alison Brie also delivers an emotional performance – just in a different fashion. She brings a more straightforward persona that clashes with Franco’s character.

These two lead performances take “Together” to new heights. Both characters have individual traits and quirks that seep onscreen, but it’s the real-life pair’s chemistry that makes the film truly believable. Their tethered bond feels real and keeps the narrative grounded, even when things spiral into chaos.

Body Horror With Brains

Amidst the madness, the film still offers audiences a lot to think on. It’s a metaphor about love, and the lengths we go to maintain it – whether that’s for the good or bad.

Using body horror to examine this subject is a fascinating approach… one that may have viewers analyzing their own lives. Many people fear losing their sense of individualism and freedom in relationships. “Together” literalizes this anxiety, bringing it to life in terrifying fashion.

Practical effects steal the show. The film pulls off grotesque imagery and creative body horror in a variety of ways. It’s impressive just how often “Together” is able to reinvent the wheel visually, without ever leaning on spectacle for its own sake.

With the practical effects comes equally strong cinematography and editing. In his feature debut, director Michael Shanks showcases a clear talent and an eye for detail. Camera movements, dark corridors and quick cuts all aid in the movie’s overall effectiveness.

Chaos and Cohesion

As “Together” progresses, it pulls out all the stops. It’s a mixture of romance, horror, comedy, sci-fi, drama and more. This bold blending of genres hurts the tone in brief instances, but it’s surprisingly cohesive. Strong world-building and sharp character development keep things grounded.

“Together” is also hilarious. The film captures small, unexpected moments that result in genuine laughs. It capitalizes on the sheer awkwardness of its scenarios. It’s a specific kind of comedy that won’t work for everyone, but if you’ve got a twisted sense of humor, it may be right up your alley.

The flick does spend time exploring lore, though not enough. As the central relationship remains the main focus, the bigger picture behind it all sometimes gets pushed aside. This keeps things ambiguous – while also occasionally feeling underdeveloped.

“Together” is a weird experience – it’s also a bold one. By exploring love and co-dependency through inventive body horror, it delivers awkward laughs, thought-provoking scenarios and terrifying imagery. Through the performances of Franco and Brie alongside Shanks’ direction, the film doesn’t just work; it lingers. It’s different. It’s daring. It’s cinema that takes risks and earns them.

“Together” is exactly the kind of original filmmaking (despite a lawsuit claiming otherwise) that deserves to be seen on the big screen.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5