Reviews: Relic (2020) Movie Review
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Subgenres: Haunted House, Psychological, Supernatural, Dysfunctional Family, Haunted House - Cursed
Horror fans will enjoy our review of Relic (2020), where we cover its story, scares, and how it ranks among modern horror classics.
Relic (2020) is not your typical horror film—rather than relying on jump scares or supernatural entities, it presents a deeply unsettling story about dementia, family trauma, and generational fear. Directed by Natalie Erika James, this psychological horror-drama follows Edna (Robyn Nevin), an elderly woman who mysteriously vanishes from her remote home. When her daughter Kay (Emily Mortimer) and granddaughter Sam (Bella Heathcote) arrive to search for her, they uncover eerie clues suggesting that something dark and insidious has taken hold of their family matriarch.
Relic (2020) – A Hauntingly Emotional Horror Story That Lingers
Plot, Themes, and Character Development
At its core, Relic is a metaphor for the slow, creeping decay of the mind. The film uses horror elements to symbolize the fear of losing oneself and being forgotten, making it far more emotionally resonant than your standard haunted house tale. The relationships between the three generations of women serve as the backbone of the story, making every moment of dread feel personal and painful.
Acting and Cinematography
The performances in Relic are nothing short of outstanding. Robyn Nevin delivers a heartbreaking portrayal of a woman losing control of her identity, while Emily Mortimer and Bella Heathcote add emotional weight to the story with their convincing mother-daughter dynamic. Their interactions feel raw and authentic, which makes the horror moments even more impactful.
Visually, Relic is drenched in dark, decaying aesthetics that reflect Edna’s mental and physical deterioration. Cinematographer Charlie Sarroff masterfully uses shadows and claustrophobic spaces to create an overwhelming sense of unease. The house itself is a character, shifting and transforming in ways that mirror Edna’s unraveling psyche. The use of slow camera movements and dim lighting enhances the film’s oppressive atmosphere, making every frame feel like a painting of existential dread.
Directing Style, Strengths, and Weaknesses
Director Natalie Erika James crafts a film that blends psychological horror with family drama, creating an experience that lingers long after the credits roll. The horror in Relic isn’t about monsters or ghosts—it’s about the inescapable horror of aging and losing control over your own body and mind.
However, Relic is not a fast-paced horror film, which may disappoint some viewers expecting a more traditional haunted house story. The slow-burn approach works for the film’s themes but could test the patience of those looking for constant action. Additionally, the ambiguous nature of the ending, while powerful, may leave some audiences frustrated.
Final Verdict: 7/10
Relic (2020) is a thought-provoking, eerie, and deeply emotional horror film that delivers more than just scares—it delivers a message. With strong performances, haunting cinematography, and a story that cuts deep, it stands out in the modern horror landscape. While its slow pacing and abstract storytelling may not appeal to everyone, those who appreciate atmospheric, psychological horror will find Relic to be an unforgettable experience.
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.
- Relic Rating Scores
- Our Score: 7/10
- Overall Score: 7.39/10
- IMDB: 6.0/10
- MetaCritic: 7.7/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 9.1/10
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