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Swallow
By Kat Halstead,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Stylish psychological drama has self-harm, strong language.
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Swallow
Community Reviews
Based on 1 parent review
Layered story about patriarchy takes some twists and turns
What's the Story?
In SWALLOW, Hunter Conrad (Haley Bennett) lives an outwardly charmed life, married to the wealthy Richie (Austin Stowell), and yet she finds herself playing a role and losing her identity. When a self-help book suggests that she try something new every day, she gradually begins ingesting small household objects -- her own secret act of rebellion that makes her feel alive. But when this is discovered by her husband during an ultrasound exam, she is placed under close observation and psychological evaluation. As she loses more and more control, Hunter questions the motives of those around her and must look to events in her own past to find freedom in the future.
Is It Any Good?
Swallow boasts a superb central performance from Bennett as Hunter. Despite showing little reaction or emotion behind her doll-like facade, each twitch of the mouth or movement of the eyeballs suggests feelings trapped within, and a sense of inevitability bubbling just below the surface. Hunter's experiences at home and with her husband, Richie, and in-laws Katherine (Elizabeth Marvel) and Michael (David Rasche) are filmed with a detached dreamlike quality that makes her small acts of rebellion -- though both psychologically and viscerally disturbing -- strangely welcome punctures to the domestic bubble.
The plot does build to a climax as the walls start closing in on Hunter and she must find her own version of freedom. But the ending seems somewhat tacked on, and the revelations and attempt to tie them into the ongoing psychology feel a little forced. Though the film seems to almost back away from the impact it initially promised, it is an interesting study of patriarchal control and the effects upon those who suffer under its weight, even within an environment of apparent privilege.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Hunter's eating disorder is portrayed in Swallow. Did it seem realistic? Why do you think Hunter self-harmed in this way?
Discuss the strong language used in the movie. Did it seem necessary or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
How are traditional gender roles represented in the movie? Why is it important to challenge stereotypes like these?
How does Hunter's character change during the film, and what are the most important lessons she learns? What character strengths does she need to achieve these changes? Why are these good character strengths to have?
Movie Details
- In theaters: March 6, 2020
- On DVD or streaming: June 5, 2020
- Cast: Haley Bennett , Austin Stowell , Denis O'Hare
- Director: Carlo Mirabella-Davis
- Inclusion Information: Female actors
- Studio: IFC Films
- Genre: Drama
- Character Strengths: Perseverance
- Run time: 94 minutes
- MPAA rating: R
- MPAA explanation: language, some sexuality and disturbing behavior
- Last updated: February 25, 2023
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