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In “Never Let Go,” Halle Berry portrays a mother fiercely protecting her twin sons in a post-apocalyptic nightmare, isolated from the remnants of the outside But. She enforces stringent rules in a manner that feels almost suffocating, the most crucial being to never leave their secluded shack without a rope attached, ensuring they stay connected to the sanctity of home. If they find themselves untethered, they risk falling prey to a malevolent force that lurks in the shadows.

This film leans more toward psychological thriller than horror, blending elements reminiscent of “Bird Box,” “A Quiet Place,” and a touch of “Cabin in the Woods,” tapping into the rise of pandemic-era isolation thrillers.

While it might seem to echo the familiar trope of a scary cabin in the woods, this narrative unfolds differently. It focuses on a mother and her two sons, who are in survival mode, hunting for food while tethered to their home by thick ropes that stretch for yards. It’s unsettling to witness children, aged 8-10, becoming adept hunters, foraging for bugs, squirrels, and frogs to survive.

All the twins know is the art of hunting and the importance of staying bound to their home. Their mother insists that the outside world is gone, claiming that any remaining humans are dangerous zombies. Her strict rules about never venturing out without their ropes, and the mantra “Never Let Go,” shape their reality.

This film is unsettling, not through traditional jump scares, but by showcasing the innocence of these boys who have never seen the real world. Their worn clothes and lack of access to modern technology—no TV, smartphones, or any connection to civilization—illustrate their complete disconnection. Their only form of entertainment is listening to vinyl records on an old turntable, unaware of its antiquity.

Though set in present day, the boys live as if they belong to an era long past, reminiscent of the 1940s or earlier. It’s refreshing to see children unencumbered by technology, yet they are deprived of a true childhood in this pandemic-ridden world. They live in fear, with their mother’s strict discipline adding to the tension. She trains them to hide in the cellar during times of danger and instills a daily prayer to protect their sacred home, threatening them with weapons if they dare to question her authority.

The film captures the heartbreaking reality of their malnourishment and isolation as they struggle for survival. A pivotal moment arises when food becomes so scarce that they resort to eating tree bark, prompting a bold and troubling decision from the mother that takes the story in a darker direction.

The unseen evil is something only she can perceive, leading her to tell the boys they’ll understand it when they’re older. This notion plants seeds of doubt in Nolan (Percy Daggs IV), who clashes with his twin brother Samuel (Anthony B Jenkins). The twins embody contrasting personalities: Nolan, a curious free-thinker, and Samuel, a compliant mama’s boy.

Percy Daggs IV as Nolan in Never Let Go. Photo Credit: Liane Hentscher

Nolan emerges as a strong protagonist, seeking to understand the world beyond his mother’s strict teachings. As the brothers grapple with their differences, Nolan finds ways to maintain their twin bond, even amidst turmoil.

Anthony B. Jenkins as Samuel in Never Let Go. Photo Credit: Liane Hentscher

Never Let Go can be compared to the recently released Netflix psychological thriller The Deliverance, which also stars Anthony B Jenkins. Both films explore themes of generational trauma and the internal demons that haunt their characters. The mothers in each story wrestle with their own struggles, passing down beliefs and trauma to their children, often shaped by their own upbringing.

The film’s themes resonate with previous releases, such as A24’s The Front Room, where stepmotherly trauma disrupts the household, introducing its own set of demons. Is the recurring theme of motherly trauma the defining motif for the fall movie season?

At its core, Never Let Go deep dives into the battle against invisible evils that can hinder a family’s progress. Viewed through a deeper lens, the film reveals a narrative about generational trauma, illustrating how it can influence every action. Nolan and Samuel’s dynamic reflects the biblical tale of Cain and Abel, showcasing the complexities of sibling rivalry.

In this film, Halle Berry portrays a stern mother who binds her sons both spiritually and physically to their home with a thick rope that stretches for yards into the surrounding woods. As food becomes scarce, tensions rise, and new layers of paranoia and fear infiltrate their lives. The mother grows increasingly hardened, even threatening her children in her own twisted way to protect them from a world she believes is fraught with danger. She insists that real humans have been overtaken by zombie-like entities and cannot be trusted.

Ultimately, the film delivers a powerful message about generational trauma, revealing that its roots often extend beyond direct parental influence, tracing back to grandparents and the circumstances that shaped them. This cycle can create enduring demons and experiences that should have been broken. It often takes one brave family member to disrupt these patterns, while others may perpetuate them, clinging to what they know.

Halle Berry is no stranger to psychological thrillers, with standout performances in films like “Gothika,” “Frankie and Alice,” and “Perfect Strangers.” She’s also adept at portraying fierce maternal instincts, as seen in “Losing Isaiah” and “Kidnap.” In Never Let Go, she takes on the role of a disheveled mother, but this time, her protective instincts veer into unsettling territory. While many will flock to see Berry, an Oscar-winning actress, it’s the young newcomers Percy Daggs IV and Anthony B. Jenkins who steal the show.

These talented young actors don’t merely play children; they deliver powerful performances that resonate with authenticity and depth. Their emotional portrayals feel raw and genuine, making a significant impact on the film. It’s refreshing to witness such strong talent at a young age, and it’s clear that we’ll be seeing much more from them in the future. They truly take center stage in this gripping story, proving their potential for longevity in the industry.

NEVER LET GO WRAPS INTO THEATERS SEPTEMBER 20TH