Reviews: Darlin (2019) Movie Review
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Subgenres: Thriller, Cannibalism, Religion
Darlin (2019) shocked audiences with its ending. Our spoiler-free review explains the scares, themes, and what makes this film unforgettable.
Darlin’, a semi-sequel to Lucky McKee’s 2011 cult film The Woman, picks up with the feral girl (now a teenager) being dropped off at a Catholic hospital by the titular character from the previous installment. Found filthy, wild, and unable to speak, Darlin’ becomes a media curiosity and the center of a controversial conversion project led by a self-serving bishop. Meanwhile, the original Woman is not far behind, watching from the shadows and ready to reclaim what’s hers.
Darlin’ (2019) – A Twisted Continuation of Feminist Horror Through Ferality and Faith
Plot, Themes, and Character Development
The narrative boldly pits organized religion against naturalistic survivalism, exploring themes of female autonomy, institutional abuse, and the domestication of trauma. As Darlin’ is "civilized" by the church, she begins to question not just her past but the hypocrisy of the so-called holy world she’s been thrust into. Her transformation is at the emotional center of the film, making her arc one of painful growth and awakening.
Acting and Cinematography
Lauryn Canny delivers a compelling and emotionally complex performance as Darlin’. Her journey from mute feral child to conscious young woman is handled with impressive restraint, allowing the audience to track her internal changes with minimal dialogue. Pollyanna McIntosh, who reprises her role as The Woman while also directing the film, maintains the primal rage and unpredictable energy that made her character so unnerving in the original.
Visually, Darlin’ makes strong use of contrast—between sterile hospital rooms and the grimy freedom of the woods, between the polished facade of the church and the dark truths behind its walls. While not as visually stylish as its predecessor, the film favors a gritty realism that enhances its claustrophobic, disturbing tone.
Directing Style, Strengths, and Weaknesses
Making her directorial debut, Pollyanna McIntosh brings a raw, feminist-driven voice to the narrative. Her approach feels personal, with unflinching shots of bodily trauma, rebellion, and sisterhood. The satire is sharp, particularly in the way it critiques religious institutions and the patriarchal control of female bodies.
However, McIntosh’s direction isn’t without flaws. The pacing is inconsistent, and some supporting characters are underdeveloped. The story leans heavily into dark comedy and grotesque exaggeration, which may not sit well with all audiences, especially those expecting more grounded horror. Additionally, while the messaging is bold, it sometimes lacks nuance, opting for blunt-force symbolism over subtlety.
Strengths:
Powerful feminist themes rooted in rebellion and self-realization
Lauryn Canny’s standout performance as Darlin’
Pollyanna McIntosh’s fierce direction adds emotional weight and raw energy
Effective social commentary on institutional hypocrisy and control
Weaknesses:
Uneven pacing that undermines the film’s intensity
Thinly written side characters with minimal payoff
Overt symbolism may feel heavy-handed for some viewers
Tonally jarring shifts between horror, drama, and satire
Final Verdict & Score: 6/10
Darlin’ is a messy but ambitious horror film that continues the legacy of The Woman with a sharp bite and a feminist roar. While not as tightly crafted as its predecessor, it offers a raw, emotional experience and biting commentary on modern society’s treatment of women, trauma, and autonomy.
Sources Used to Shape This Review
Insights in this review are drawn from director interviews, fan commentary, production notes, and long-form breakdowns across genre-specific platforms. Content is written uniquely and reviewed for accuracy.
- Darlin Rating Scores
- Our Score: 6/10
- Overall Score: 5.94/10
- MetaCritic: 4.9/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 6.9/10
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