Captivating ‘Bring Her Back’ (2025) Movie Review: Insights and Highlights from Roger Ebert

Danny and Michael Philippou’s latest film, “Bring Her Back,” follows their acclaimed debut, “Talk to Me.” This new horror flick dives deep into themes of parental grief and trauma, featuring enough shocking moments to keep even seasoned horror fans on edge. But while “Talk to Me” was tight and focused, this film feels a bit scattered, throwing numerous dark ideas at the audience.

The story begins with siblings Andy (Billy Barratt) and Piper (Sora Wong) discovering their father’s lifeless body at home. Orphaned overnight, Andy, just shy of 18, desperately wants to keep his blind sister under his care. They get placed with Laura (Sally Hawkins), a former social worker haunted by her own tragic past. As Andy navigates his responsibilities, strange occurrences at Laura’s home lead him to suspect that something isn’t right.

Co-written by Danny Philippou and Bill Hinzman, the film is filled with psychological twists. From the outset, viewers witness eerie happenings and hidden truths. Andy’s struggles to adapt manifest in unsettling ways—he begins to wet the bed, a behavior tied to Laura’s sinister manipulations. She aims to prove him unfit to care for Piper, adding tension to the siblings’ dynamic. There’s also a bizarre cult ritual showcased through grainy footage. While meant to terrify, it feels like an unnecessary distraction from the core of the story.

“Bring Her Back” shares similarities with “Talk to Me,” incorporating themes of sibling danger and supernatural elements. It also draws upon the real horrors of family trauma, reminiscent of Ari Aster’s “Hereditary.” Previous film offers a cautionary tale about viral fame and dark dares among teens. In contrast, “Bring Her Back” focuses more on the siblings’ struggles against a host of terror, particularly the real-life horrors faced by children in foster care.

Despite its chaotic narrative, “Bring Her Back” succeeds in delivering shocks, especially a particularly brutal scene involving a knife. Hawkins delivers a standout performance as Laura, blending warmth with a chilling undertone. Meanwhile, Barratt’s portrayal of Andy infuses the narrative with heart, highlighting the siblings’ bond amidst chaos. Wong brings vibrancy to Piper, embodying her conflict between trust in her brother and manipulation from their foster parent.

Cinematographer Aaron McLisky enhances this unsettling atmosphere with his dynamic shots, making each encounter more intense. Although it may not reach the heights of “Talk to Me,” “Bring Her Back” proves the Philippous still have a flair for crafting gripping and spooky tales.

Recent studies reveal that nearly 400,000 children are in foster care in the U.S. alone. This reality adds weight to the film’s portrayal of its characters’ struggles. As we navigate our own understanding of trauma and care, “Bring Her Back” serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility surrounding family and safety.



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