Fairy tales often seem aimed at children, teaching them lessons about goodness. But the stories we grew up with are very different from their original versions. The early tales were much darker and grittier, meant to prepare kids for a harsh world. Think of the Brothers Grimm and Hans Christian Andersen—they weren’t shy about including chilling elements in their stories.
Enter “Adorable Humans,” a Danish anthology film that flips these classic notions. This modern horror take is definitely not for kids. With themes of sex, drugs, and violence, it explores deep human emotions against a backdrop of contemporary life. This isn’t just a spooky film; it’s meant to provoke thought and spark discussions, making it best suited for adult audiences. It’s the kind of movie you might find at niche film festivals.
Directed by Anders Jon, the segment “The Dead Man” follows Jonas, a care worker whose life spirals as he becomes obsessed with Sofie, a wild young woman. His relationship with her leads him to neglect his elderly patient in a way that hints at something supernatural tying the characters together.
In “The Story of a Mother,” we watch Maj fiercely protect her ailing son, Lukas. The film tackles grief head-on, showcasing how uncontrollable forces of life can shatter a mother’s world. Meanwhile, “The Snow Queen” delves into themes of shame and mental health, featuring Gerda’s struggles as she tries to support her troubled boyfriend, Kaj, in a shockingly twisted tale.
Finally, “Auntie Toothache” adds a quirky flair. Here, Benny, a self-proclaimed “professional loser,” seeks help from his aunt to overcome his writer’s block. The film blends humor with darker elements, making it a unique addition to the anthology.
Despite its range of stories, “Adorable Humans” maintains a consistent style. Each director employs practical effects that range from haunting to grotesque, skillfully building tension. The pacing is slow and deliberate, culminating in effective jump scares.
However, the film isn’t without its flaws. The framing device—a visually dated animation of flipping pages—feels more like a relic from an old video game than a modern cinematic choice. This may reflect budget constraints but also hints at a stylistic intention.
What stands out is the collaboration among filmmakers. Unlike many anthology films, where short segments often feel disconnected, “Adorable Humans” weaves internal links between its stories. This connection adds depth, much like a concept album where each track contributes to a larger theme. While it may not appeal to everyone, fans of indie horror and complex storytelling will likely find it rewarding.
As audiences increasingly seek innovative narratives, film studies show that mixed-genre storytelling is on the rise, with a 2023 survey indicating that 64% of viewers prefer films that blend elements like horror with other genres. “Adorable Humans” taps into this trend, providing a fresh take on familiar tales while sparking engaging discussions about human nature in our modern world.
Ultimately, if you enjoy stories that make you think as much as they entertain, this film could be just what you’re looking for.
