Grafted (2024) Movie Review: A Body Horror Film with Uneven Depth
Grafted (2024) is an audacious entry into the realm of body horror, directed by Sasha Rainbow and written by Lee Murray, Mia Maramara, and Rainbow herself. The film, streaming on AMC+ and Shudder, explores themes of identity, beauty standards, and cultural disconnection through the lens of a darkly comedic and grotesque narrative. This review delves into the highs and lows of Grafted, providing insights into its plot, themes, and execution while offering information on where to watch it online.
Plot Overview
Grafted follows Wei, a socially awkward yet brilliant Chinese exchange student played by Joyena Sun, as she embarks on a life-changing scholarship at a prestigious university in New Zealand. Wei’s desperation for acceptance drives her to revive her deceased father’s experiments in skin-grafting technology, setting off a chain of gruesome events.
Amidst familial tensions with her Westernized cousin Angela (Jess Hong) and the cruelty of mean girls, Wei finds herself navigating a toxic environment fueled by internalized racism and misogyny. The story takes a sharp turn into horror as Wei’s experiments spiral out of control, creating a nightmarish journey into the grotesque.
Themes and Execution
Cultural and Social Commentary
At its core, Grafted examines the pressures young women face regarding beauty standards and societal acceptance, particularly through the lens of a woman of color. Angela, born and raised in New Zealand, embodies a detachment from her Chinese heritage, while Wei’s unapologetic embrace of her culture highlights their contrasting identities. The film also critiques academia through the predatory relationship between Eve (Eden Hart) and her professor, adding another layer of discomfort to the narrative.
Body Horror and Visual Aesthetic
The film’s most notable strength lies in its practical effects. From the grotesque body modifications to the unsettlingly realistic surgery sequences, the visuals effectively evoke discomfort. The production design, including details like Wei’s eerie surgical photos and the surreal “vag-shaped” hole in Aunty Ling’s living room, adds a layer of absurdity that complements the film’s tone.
Pacing and Character Development
While the first half of Grafted sets up an intriguing premise, the film falters in its second half. The body-swap subplot and scientific intrigue lack cohesion, and the narrative becomes repetitive. Additionally, many characters feel underdeveloped, such as Paul, the lecherous lecturer, and Wei’s cousin Angela. These missed opportunities for depth leave the film feeling uneven, despite strong performances from the cast.
Acting and Direction
Joyena Sun delivers a standout performance as Wei, capturing the character’s vulnerability and descent into obsession. Jess Hong and Eden Hart bring layered antagonism to their roles, while Ginette McDonald provides a memorable supporting turn as Aunty Ling. Sasha Rainbow’s direction showcases an eye for composition, balancing the film’s bubblegum girliness with its visceral horror. However, the uneven tone—oscillating between satire and serious drama—detracts from the overall impact.
Comparison to “The Substance”
As part of a wave of feminist body-horror films, Grafted invites comparisons to The Substance. While The Substance succeeds in exploring themes of beauty and aging with gravitas, Grafted leans heavily into absurdity. This tonal choice, while entertaining, undermines its potential for deeper commentary on identity and cultural dissonance.
Where to Watch Grafted Online
Grafted is available for streaming on AMC+ and Shudder, making it easily accessible for horror enthusiasts in the United States. For those who prefer renting or purchasing, platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, and Apple iTunes may also offer the film. Be sure to check these services for availability and pricing.
Final Thoughts
Grafted is a visually striking but narratively uneven film that scratches the surface of complex themes without fully diving in. Its practical effects and strong performances make it an enjoyable watch for horror fans, particularly those drawn to body horror. However, the lack of cohesion and depth prevents it from reaching its full potential.
Despite its flaws, Grafted marks a promising debut for Sasha Rainbow, showcasing her talent for blending the grotesque with stylistic flair. Horror fans looking for an unsettling, visually inventive experience will find enough to enjoy, but those seeking a deeper exploration of its themes may be left wanting more.
