Marrowbone, the 2017 horror thriller film, delves into the captivating tale of four siblings who find themselves living in a eerie house following their mother's passing. With exceptional performances by today's most exciting actors, Mia Goth and Anya Taylor-Joy, this movie is a must-watch for horror enthusiasts seeking a deeper cinematic experience.
Featuring a surprising twist, a talented ensemble cast, and a wealth of emotional moments, Marrowbone is an underappreciated gem in the horror genre. Written and directed by Sergio G. Sánchez, this film may have flown under the radar upon its release, but it is a perfect choice for fans of Mia Goth and Anya Taylor-Joy. Having previously seen their remarkable performances in X, Pearl, Infinity Pool, The Witch, and Last Night In Soho, Marrowbone showcases Goth and Taylor-Joy's ability to portray emotionally resonant characters.
Marrowbone tells the story of a family who moves back to their ancestral home in Maine after residing in England. Tragically, the mother, Rose, passes away, leaving the four siblings to fend for themselves. Among them is Jack Marrowbone, portrayed by George MacKay, who assumes the role of the family's leader. Additionally, Mia Goth, known for her work in horror films like Ti West's X and the prequel Pearl, delivers an exceptional performance as Jane Marrowbone. As a tormented teenager, Jane shares a strong bond with her siblings but also grapples with the profound grief caused by the loss of their mother.
Allie (Anya Taylor-Joy) becomes close friends with the siblings, unaware of the haunted nature of their house. While Marrowbone may not be widely recognized as one of Anya Taylor-Joy's top films, it undeniably showcases her talents. Allie, as a member of the Marrowbone family yet an outsider, adds an intriguing dynamic to the story, making her character captivating to observe.
Marrowbone weaves together numerous eerie plotlines. The revelation that the siblings' father, Simon, was a serial killer transforms him into one of the most enigmatic horror film antagonists. This shocking revelation occurs at a crucial juncture in Marrowbone, solidifying its status as a gripping and underappreciated horror movie.
Who Else Stars In Marrowbone?
In addition to Mia Goth and Anya-Taylor Joy, Marrowbone also features other talented actors. Matthew Stagg, known for his roles in the TV series Bodyguard and the miniseries War & Peace, portrays Sam Marrowbone. Charlie Heaton, recognized for his role as Jonathan Byers in Stranger Things, takes on the character of Billy Marrowbone, who plays a crucial role in the final act of the film. Heaton has demonstrated his affinity for underrated horror movies, having previously starred in the 2016 film Shut In as Stephen Portman, a lesser-known horror movie from the 2010s.
Rounding out the ensemble are Tom Fisher as Simon Fairbaim, Nicola Harrison as Rose Marrowbone, and Kyle Soller as Kyle Porter. Tom Fisher has an impressive list of credits, including notable appearances in 2019's The King, 2016's The Rat Pack, and the popular TV series Kingdom from the 2000s.
How Does Marrowbone End?
The conclusion of Marrowbone delivers a haunting twist that mirrors the emotional turmoil faced by the main characters. It is revealed that Jack coerced his siblings into the attic of the haunted house before tragically ending their lives. However, Jack's delusions lead him to believe that his siblings are still alive, causing him to hallucinate their presence. Allie eventually uncovers the truth, assuming the role of a final girl character commonly seen in horror movies. The memory of his brother Billy possesses Jack, leading him to commit the gruesome act of murdering their father, Simon. This distressing scene serves as a painful reminder of the enduring agony endured by the family throughout the years.
The plot twist in Marrowbone can be seen as both memorable and predictable, depending on one's perspective. However, it effectively highlights the long-standing trauma experienced by the Marrowbone family. This twist also reveals that the family members have avoided discussing their emotions and the events that have transpired.
Allie takes on the role of Jack's caretaker, despite being advised by a doctor not to act as if his siblings are still alive. However, she believes that it is beneficial for Jack to pretend they are still present and encourages him to remember them in order to find peace. Anya Taylor-Joy's elegant talent is a perfect fit for this character. While not everyone may agree with Allie's actions, they demonstrate her kind-hearted nature and her desire for Jack's well-being. Anya Taylor-Joy's exceptional performance in the dark thriller Thoroughbreds is equally matched in the underappreciated film Marrowbone.