Brightburn

Released 9th May 2019, Brightburn indulges in the concept of Superman if he grew up to decide that he does not have to use his powers for good… why not use them for bad? One aspect of the film which had vast potential was its placement into the horror genre; while the film makes use of some sinister visuals, and equally so plot-points, the film utilises too many jump scares which deflate the growing tension. Brightburn’s concept leads the way for themes of violence, responsibility and belonging; there is also an emphasis on the sexual awakening of young males and how, if unchecked, can develop an unrealistic mentality that requires immediate action. The film places a strong emphasis on violence by illustrating horrifically brutal scenarios which the camera does not fear to show.

Most of the onscreen violence is the result of protagonist Brandon Breyer’s superpowers and his horrible misuse of them. Jackson A. Dunn gives a rather mixed performance as Brandon; on one hand, his delivery of many lines feel rushed and his facial expressions often wander. That said, his wavering facial expressions actually mesh well with Brandon’s psychopathic nature and his definitive lack of sympathy for anyone in the narrative. Elizabeth Banks and Meredith Hagner give great performances to Tori Breyer and Merilee McNichol, respectively. However, these two characters constantly make poor decisions through the narrative which could easily (and logically) have been avoided. David Denman is definitely the standout as both actor and with his character Kyle, Brandon’s father. Whereas Tori is well acted but illogical throughout the narrative, Kyle abides by both logic and emotion towards his son; he is the first to truly understand Brandon’s negative potential and is the only person close to him who suitably acts on his behaviours.

For a child actor, Emmie Hunter gives a decent performance as Caitlyn; she gives a suitably anxious performance once she realises Brandon’s disturbing tendencies and how she may be the centre of some of them. While understandable for the minute budget, the visual effects are mostly awful and only really ‘shine’ with anatomically demanding shots. As for the soundtrack, it had some tonally fascinating concepts which would have benefitted from evolving leitmotifs. Overall, Brightburn is far from the worst horror film ever made; that said, it’s concepts promised something truly super and the film did not deliver.