The new horror film Shell, starring Elisabeth Moss and Kate Hudson, has garnered a mix of intrigue and skepticism following its release. Directed by Max Minghella, the film features bizarre and provocative scenes, including a wellness CEO, played by Hudson, compelling Moss to engage with a giant vibrator while staring into a mirror. Despite the outrageous premise, critics have described the film as lacking the necessary energy and depth to fully realize its potential as a camp classic.
In one of the film’s opening sequences, Elizabeth Berkley portrays a character who frantically removes shells that have grown on her skin before meeting a gruesome end at the hands of a masked assailant. Other surreal moments include Hudson serving a dinner made from her own discarded skin and Kaia Gerber transforming into a giant lobster. While such elements might suggest a thrilling ride, many viewers find the execution disappointingly flat.
The film faces stiff competition as it bears a striking resemblance to The Substance, a film that premiered at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival. Both films center on LA actors navigating the treacherous waters of Hollywood, grappling with unrealistic beauty standards and the allure of cosmetic enhancements that promise immediate rewards but come with severe side effects. Critics point out that Shell lacks the engaging satire and depth found in its predecessor.
Moss, typically known for her dramatic roles, appears miscast in a part that requires a more playful touch. Despite her previous collaboration with Minghella on The Handmaid’s Tale, the actress’s performance as an insecure actor striving for success feels unconvincing. Pregnant during filming, she is often hidden beneath oversized clothing, which detracts from her portrayal of a desperate Hollywood aspirant.
On the other hand, Hudson shines as the sinister CEO of a beauty brand that prioritizes results over ethics. Critics have noted that her performance brings a layer of complexity to the film, showcasing her ability to balance charm with malevolence. Unfortunately, her compelling presence is not enough to elevate a script that fails to deliver on its satirical potential. Written by Jack Stanley, the screenplay is criticized for its lack of wit, with the film’s climax revolving around an NDA—a concept that proves to be more amusing in theory than in execution.
Minghella’s direction has also come under scrutiny; the film’s visual style is compared unfavorably to a daytime soap opera, drawing attention to its lackluster cinematography and uninspired score. Critics suggest that if Minghella aimed for a parody of low-budget horror films, he did not fully commit to the concept, leaving Shell feeling like a missed opportunity.
Despite its shortcomings, there are hints of what the film could have been, particularly in scenes that allow Hudson to showcase her range. A more refined script and a better balance of absurdity could have transformed Shell into a genuinely entertaining experience, much like the cult classic Death Becomes Her.
As audiences anticipate its release in various regions, Shell will be available for digital rental in the United States, with Australian viewers able to access it on October 30, 2023, and those in the United Kingdom on November 7, 2023. The film’s journey through the horror genre may provoke discussions about beauty standards and the entertainment industry, but whether it will leave a lasting impact remains to be seen.
