More than 200 years have passed since Mary Shelley penned “Frankenstein,” but its spine-tingling elements still resonate with audiences today. Filmmakers often tap into Shelley’s masterpiece to create their own rendition of the terrifying prospect of reviving the dead. Entering this realm is Laura Moss, with her psychological horror debut, Birth/Rebirth. A unique and terrifying take, Moss’s film is deeply rooted in Shelley’s concept but twisted with contemporary fears.
Birth/Rebirth delves into the psyche of a morgue technician, consumed by the desire to breathe life into the dead. She accomplishes the unthinkable by resurrecting a young girl. However, the process demands a harrowing price: the harvesting of body parts from expectant mothers. A chilling journey unfolds when the child’s mother learns the horrifying truth, and the duo spirals down an ominous path. Beyond the raw horror elements, the movie subtly touches upon themes of motherhood, medical sci-fi, and the duality of life and death.
Making its debut at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival, Birth/Rebirth was met with thunderous applause and commendation. Critics lauded its ingenious blending of classical horror elements with modern-day narrative. One review praised its “disturbingly relatable approach to fundamental fears.” Chase Hutchinson, in his review, highlighted the film’s wicked allure for horror enthusiasts.
Birth/Rebirth: When and Where?
Having premiered at Sundance on January 20, 2023, IFC plans to roll out Birth/Rebirth for a limited theatrical release on August 18, 2023.
Streaming Details
Horror enthusiasts can stream Birth/Rebirth exclusively on Shudder, with the exact release date yet to be announced. Shudder, a platform dedicated entirely to horror content, is accessible via a monthly subscription starting at $6.99.
A Glimpse into Birth/Rebirth
IFC’s trailer for Birth/Rebirth paints a clear picture: this is not a typical ghost story. Instead, the movie ventures into the darkest recesses of human cognition. The story sheds light on the repercussions of obsessive desire. The trailer intricately unveils a doctor’s grim experiments and a bereaved mother’s emotional chaos. What stands out is the mother’s desperation, not in fear, but to keep her resurrected daughter alive.
Behind the Scenes
The atmospheric settings of New York City’s Co-op City served as the backdrop for Birth/Rebirth, with filming commencing in late 2022.
Meet the Ensemble
Marin Ireland of “Law and Order” and “Sneaky Pete” fame spearheads the cast as Rose, the pathologist infatuated with the morbid. Judy Reyes, renowned for roles in “Claws” and “Scrubs,” portrays Celie, a nurse and mother to Lila, played by A.J. Lister. Supporting characters include LaChanze, Monique Gabriela Curnen, Rina Mejia, Grant Harrison, Richard Gallagher, and more.
The Minds Behind Birth/Rebirth
Laura Moss, alongside co-writer Brendan O’Brien, are the masterminds behind this nerve-wracking saga. Moss’s previous works include shorts such as “Fry Day” and “Porn Without Sex.” O’Brien has been a recurrent collaborator with Moss, sharing writing and production credits on numerous projects. Birth/Rebirth is a Shudder and Retrospecter Film production, with the duo Elfman + Viste producing, and O’Brien and Jordan Barker as executive producers.
Diving Deeper into Birth/Rebirth
At its core, Birth/Rebirth narrates the intersection of two distinct lives. Rose, a pathologist, immerses herself in her work, nurturing an uncanny obsession with resurrection. Celie’s world revolves around her bubbly six-year-old, Lila. But a tragic incident alters their trajectories. Together, they grapple with unspeakable horrors, confronting their darkest apprehensions and gauging the extremities they’d endure for their loved ones.
In Conclusion
With a fresh take on Shelley’s immortal “Frankenstein,” Laura Moss’s Birth/Rebirth promises a tantalizing journey for horror aficionados. Whether it’s the captivating storyline, the stellar performances, or its intricate exploration of human psyche, the film ensures a gripping experience. Awaiting its August release, horror enthusiasts have much to anticipate from this dark and evocative tale.
