Seaside – Movie Review
Genre: Thriller, Drama
Director: Sam Zalutsky
Starring: Ariana DeBose, Matt Shingledecker, Steffanie Leigh
Plot Summary
Seaside follows the story of Daphne, a young woman who, after a sudden breakup, finds herself accompanying her new boyfriend, Roger, to his family’s beach house on the Oregon coast. Initially expecting a peaceful getaway, Daphne soon learns about the town’s hidden secrets, particularly Roger’s past romantic entanglements. As she uncovers unsettling truths and faces betrayals, Daphne becomes entangled in a journey of revenge and self-discovery, realizing she must confront both Roger’s actions and her own path forward.
Themes and Unique Perspective
Seaside explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the desire for revenge, set against the dramatic and isolated backdrop of the Oregon coastline. The film presents a nuanced look at relationships, personal strength, and the impact of confronting one’s past. It delves into the complexity of power dynamics in relationships, as Daphne transitions from feeling powerless to taking control of her fate. The seaside setting enhances the film’s atmosphere, using the stormy coast as a metaphor for Daphne’s inner turmoil.
Performance and Direction
Ariana DeBose gives a compelling performance as Daphne, portraying vulnerability, determination, and growth as her character navigates the story’s twists. She brings authenticity and strength to Daphne, making the character’s journey relatable and engaging. Matt Shingledecker effectively captures the complex and at times manipulative nature of Roger, adding tension to their interactions.
Director Sam Zalutsky skillfully uses the rugged coastal landscape to build suspense and mirror the story’s dark themes. His direction combines thriller elements with an emotional depth that keeps the narrative grounded, resulting in a film that is visually engaging and psychologically intense. The cinematography emphasizes the isolation and mystery of the setting, creating a chilling yet beautiful backdrop for the unfolding drama.
Overall Impression
Seaside is a tense, atmospheric thriller that combines character-driven drama with elements of suspense and revenge. Its themes of empowerment and self-discovery resonate as Daphne transforms from victim to victor, making choices that redefine her future. While it may appeal most to fans of psychological thrillers, Seaside also speaks to anyone interested in stories about personal growth, resilience, and the importance of confronting one’s past. It’s a gripping, visually captivating film that reminds viewers of the strength it takes to reclaim one’s life.
