Pick of the Day: “Resurrection”

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Pick of the Day: “Resurrection”

“Resurrection” is an unapologetically gonzo movie that would absolutely not work without Rebecca Hall. But, luckily, Hall does deliver a career-best central performance as Margaret, a very put-together woman whose world begins to crumble when a man from her past, David (Tim Roth, also excellent), forces his way back into her life.

In terms of plot detail, that’s really all I can offer without getting into spoiler territory — and believe me, this is a film that should not be spoiled. But, thematically, I feel comfortable disclosing that, as its title suggests, “Resurrection” is a thriller about long-buried secrets, memories, and regrets rising from the dead. It’s also an exploration of the psychological violence men can inflict upon women, and the question of whether women can ever fully come back from the resulting trauma. Most satisfyingly, considering recent events, “Resurrection” uses a pretty singular allegory to examine reproductive justice and catalyze Margaret’s mission to reclaim what David took from her.

This allegory is revealed in a powerful single-shot monologue delivered by Hall about halfway through the film. Believe me, it will blow you away. It’s the kind of scene that, in a just world, would guarantee the actor an Oscar.

“Resurrection” is not for everyone; I don’t think it wants to be. (Let me put it this way: It could form a triptych with “Mother!” and “Men,” two other completely batshit films that I really like.) Even with Hall’s stellar turn, “Resurrection” will alienate a lot of viewers. It takes big swings — and in a world that gets more absurd by the hour, I appreciate a movie with a highly specific perspective, that sets out to make a strong impression. “Resurrection” achieves that and then some.

“Resurrection” is now in theaters and will be available on VOD tomorrow, August 5.