If You Loved ‘Pearl,’ You Need to Watch This Indie Horror Movie

Since the release of Ti West’s ‘Pearl’ in 2022, there has been a notable resurgence in the “Feminine Rage” horror genre. This trend, which includes earlier works like ‘Carrie’, ‘Audition’, ‘Ginger Snaps’, and ‘The Nightingale’, focuses on female anti-heroes or villains who respond violently to mistreatment, isolation, or trauma. ‘Pearl’, alongside Nicolas Pesce’s 2016 film ‘The Eyes of My Mother’, exemplifies this trope through its protagonists, Pearl and Francisca, who both start off as seemingly benign but gradually reveal disturbing, violent tendencies.

In ‘Pearl’, Mia Goth’s character is driven to violence by a mix of isolation, delusion, and a strained relationship with her mother. After a heated argument with her mother, Pearl sets her on fire and locks her in the basement, leading to a series of violent outbursts. Pearl’s actions are fueled by a deep-seated resentment toward those she feels have wronged her, including her family and the people around her.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

Similarly, in ‘The Eyes of My Mother’, young Francisca, played by Olivia Bond, witnesses the brutal murder of her mother by a stranger named Charlie. This traumatic event sets Francisca on a path of violence, starting with torturing Charlie and later seeking out companionship through violent means. The film portrays her descent into depravity as she becomes increasingly isolated and sadistic.

Both films highlight themes of isolation and trauma, but their characters’ motivations differ. Pearl’s violence stems from narcissism and rejection, whereas Francisca’s actions are driven by profound loneliness and a need for control. Pearl is depicted as a more methodical killer, while Francisca’s brutality is more prolonged and sadistic.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

Ultimately, ‘Pearl’ offers a more accessible and entertaining watch, while ‘The Eyes of My Mother’ stands out for its disturbing and unique portrayal of feminine rage. Both films provide striking portrayals of women driven to extremes by their personal demons, making them significant entries in the horror genre.

–Farheen Ali