Attachment Summary and Review - A Test of Love and Faith

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Attachment is a Danish horror film that blends the supernatural with a tender love story. Set against the backdrop of Jewish folklore and mysticism, it explores themes of love, family, and cultural identity. As the story unfolds, it delves into relationships, tradition, and the presence of something eerie beneath it all.

Instant Connection

Maja (Josephine Park) is a former actress living in Denmark meets Leah (Ellie Kendrick), a Jewish woman from London. The two have an instant connection, and what starts as a whirlwind romance quickly escalates when Leah is injured after suffering a mysterious seizure. Concerned for her health, Maja accompanies Leah back to her mother’s house in a Jewish neighbourhood in London. Ellie warns Maja about her "weird mother" but undeterred, Maja steps up to try and win over Chana (Sofie Gråbøl). While one might expect her to disapprove of Maja's relationship with her daughter, it's not obvious that this is the reason for her hostility. Either way, tension between Maja and Chana grows as they engage in a battle for Leah's affections while the supernatural menace haunting Leah starts to reassert its power. 

Suspicion Grows

As the trio establish an uneasy truce, Maja begins to notice a collection of mysterious objects scattered throughout their home, with little in the way of explanation from Chana. Torn between her love for Leah and her need to stay in Chana’s good books, she can’t shake the growing suspicion that something sinister is happening under Chana’s watch. Determined to understand the customs of the community she has become a part of, Maja visits a local bookstore in search of answers. There, she encounters Leah’s uncle, Lev (David Dencik) and uncovers far more than she had anticipated.

A Malevolent Spirit

One of the most noteworthy aspects of Attachment is its originality. Rooted in Jewish demonology, it gives a rare glimpse into the culture and traditions of the orthodox Jewish community and its folklore particularly in relation to the "dybbuk", a malevolent spirit in Jewish folklore. This adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, making the horror feel more unique compared to typical possession stories. 

There is a focus on the tension between Maja and Chana but Leah’s character, also central to the story, is underdeveloped by comparison. Her affliction is central to the story, yet her character isn't explored as thoroughly. Having said that, the acting is outstanding, with charismatic support from David Dencik as Lev. For me, Sofie Gråbøl steals the show, delivering a chilling performance as Chana, managing to inject an air of menace into a mother’s protective instincts. 

Attachment doesn’t rely on jump scares but instead builds a slow, seeping sense of dread. Gabriel Bier Gislason uses shadows, eerie silences, and the ordinariness of domestic spaces to create an unsettling environment. However, while the slow-burn approach works for atmosphere, the film takes more time establishing relationships rather than developing its central mystery, which may seem too restrained for some tastes.

Thoughtful and Atmospheric

The film’s climax, for the most part, ties its supernatural elements together, but it may leave some viewers wanting more. The ambiguity of certain aspects, particularly the nature of the demon and its connection to Leah, leaves questions unanswered, which could frustrate those who prefer a more concrete ending.

Attachment is a thoughtful, atmospheric horror film that stands out for its use of Jewish folklore and strong performances. While its slow pacing and lack of solid scares may detract from the experience for some, the film's originality and emotional depth make it a worthwhile watch for fans looking for something different. 

3/5

Maja: Josephine Park
Leah: Ellie Kendrick
Chana: Sofie Gråbøl
Lev: David Dencik
Director: Gabriel Bier Gislason
Writer: Gabriel Bier Gislason

Released: 2022

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