Antlers is ambitious but fails to come together. There is plenty to appreciate here but, unfortunately, it is less than the sum of its parts. The story is interesting, using creature horror to mirror family trauma, and the acting meets that material. Keri Russell, Jesse Plemons, and Jeremy Thomas (a child actor) all fill out complex characters in a gloomy world. The pacing is methodical, creating mystery and suspense. The imagery is bleak and somber, applying darkness and muted colors. Lastly, the design and effects are especially nice. The monster is mostly shrouded, but what's shown is creepy and unique.
However, Antlers doesn't land as a great film because none of this synergizes into something more. The family drama juxtaposes well with the monster, but those themes don't intertwine enough. Our protagonist is compelling, but she doesn't have a character arc that connects with her baggage. The fascinating monster has some built-in environmental messages, but none of that is explored or related to our protagonists. Sadly, this all leaves the movie feeling like a collection of attractive pieces. The filmmaking is engaging and its intentions are admirable, but, ultimately, Antlers is a bit of a let down.
Writing: 6/10
Direction: 8/10
Cinematography: 8/10
Acting: 8/10
Editing: 6/10
Sound: 7/10
Score/Soundtrack: 7/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 6/10
Effects: 8/10
Overall Score: 7.2/10
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