A sinister twist on New Year’s Eve festivities, “New Year, New You” isn’t your typical holiday flick. This Hulu original horror movie delves into the festering wounds of old friendships, exposing buried grudges and unveiling horrifying consequences. Buckle up for a chilling tale that will leave you questioning how well you really know your friends.
Synopsis: Childhood friends Alexis, Kayla, Chloe, and Danielle reunite for a New Year’s Eve bash. As champagne flows and memories resurface, tensions rise, particularly surrounding Danielle, a social media influencer with a controversial past. Alexis harbors unresolved resentment towards Danielle, accusing her of bullying Kelsey, a girl who tragically committed suicide. As the night spirals out of control, fueled by secrets, lies, and dark impulses, their celebration takes a deadly turn.
Cast:
- Suki Waterhouse as Alexis: Struggling with unresolved pain and fueled by resentment.
- Carly Chaikin as Kayla: The mediator, caught between loyalty and truth.
- Kirby Howell-Baptiste as Chloe: The lighthearted friend, hiding her own anxieties.
- Melissa Bergland as Danielle: The enigmatic influencer with a hidden dark side.
Crew:
- Director: Sophia Takal (“Always Shine,” “Black Christmas”)
- Screenwriter: Sophia Takal and Adam Gaines
- Release Date: December 28, 2018 (as part of the “Into the Dark” anthology series)
Story: The film masterfully uses the familiar setting of a reunion to explore the complexities of female friendships. Beneath the glitter and forced merriment, hidden resentments and unprocessed trauma bubble to the surface. Takal’s clever script and direction effectively build tension, leaving viewers questioning not only the characters’ motives but also the potential darkness lurking within themselves.
Review: “New Year, New You” isn’t just a horror flick; it’s a nuanced psychological thriller that will stay with you long after the credits roll. The performances are outstanding, with Waterhouse particularly captivating as the tormented Alexis. The film’s exploration of past trauma and its influence on present relationships feels raw and relatable, even as it veers into the gruesome. While the ending may not sit well with everyone, it certainly sparks discussion and introspection.
Critical Response: The film received positive reviews for its bold storytelling, strong performances, and unflinching exploration of dark themes. Critics praised Takal’s direction for creating a suspenseful atmosphere and commended the film’s ability to blend social commentary with genre thrills.
Life Lessons:
- Confronting the past: Ignoring unresolved issues can have tragic consequences. Open communication and seeking closure are crucial for lasting healthy relationships.
- Unmasking appearances: Social media facades can hide hidden scars. Don’t judge individuals solely based on online personas.
- The power of forgiveness: While healing from emotional wounds takes time, choosing forgiveness can ultimately liberate yourself and your relationships.
Conclusion: “New Year, New You” is a thought-provoking horror film that leaves a lasting impact. By venturing into the shadows of human connection, it compels us to examine our own relationships and confront the darkness that sometimes lies beneath the surface.
So, raise a glass to the chilling truths exposed in “New Year, New You.” Just remember, sometimes, the biggest scares hide not in haunted houses, but in the depths of our own relationships. Enjoy (and maybe reconsider some of those New Year’s resolutions)!
Where to Stream: “New Year, New You” is available to watch on Hulu. It is available to rent on Prime Video and Apple TV.