After the Hunt: A Closer Look
“After the Hunt” features Julia Roberts as Alma, a Yale professor thrust into a moral dilemma. When her PhD student Maggie, played by Ayo Edebiri, accuses Alma’s close friend, Hank (Andrew Garfield), of sexual abuse, Alma faces a tough choice: believe Maggie or trust Hank. This central conflict creates a tension that runs throughout the film.
The film starts with a party hosted by Alma and her psychiatrist husband, Frederik. During this gathering, Hank makes comments about Generation Z being overly sensitive, highlighting a generational divide. Throughout the movie, this theme of old versus young is prominent, with Maggie representing the student perspective.
Alma struggles to decide who is telling the truth. There’s no concrete evidence, leaving her in a tough spot. The narrative pulls viewers into Alma’s internal conflict. As the story unfolds, we question Maggie’s privilege and Hank’s flirtatious behavior, leading to a complex examination of loyalty, trust, and instincts.
However, the film doesn’t just focus on the main plot. Alma’s personal health issues add another layer to her character, yet they sometimes feel like a narrative shortcut rather than a necessity for the story. The subplot of Alma’s dark past does connect with her moral struggles but still feels somewhat forced.
While the performances are commendable, the film’s pacing is uneven. Some dialogues come off as pretentious, making it harder to engage with the characters. None of them are particularly relatable, leaving viewers with a sense of detachment.
Luca Guadagnino, known for his deep character explorations, seems to critique the academic world here. Yet, the satire doesn’t always entertain. By the end, viewers are left with ambiguity, reflecting on the nature of truth and morality without clear answers.
In recent months, films grappling with similar themes have sparked conversations on social media. Discussions around accountability and belief in the context of sexual assault allegations are trending, with many arguing for a nuanced approach.
In summary, while “After the Hunt” tackles weighty themes about trust and moral complexity, its convoluted execution and unlikable characters may leave audiences longing for more engaging storytelling.
Rating: 5/10. Available on Prime Video.
For more insights into moral dilemmas in film, check out this American Psychological Association article.
