Who
could ever expect the combination of the internet, fetishism, and teenage jealousy
would end so badly? Like the Spanish Inquisition, nobody expects the
ruthlessness of this former social media/cosplay idol turned stark raving mad
serial killer. Being cuter than her is a dangerous proposition in Ornusa
Donsawai & Pun Homchuen’s grisly Grace
(trailer
here),
which screens during the 2016 New York Asian Film Festival.
This
monster was not born, she was forged by the abuse and humiliation we witness in
flashbacks. On the other hand, reigning internet idol Care really seems to be
the sweet kid she presents herself to be. There is a reason why her BFF/webmaster
Ple is so loyal to her. Unfortunately, that rubs Grace (formerly Koi) the wrong
way. After murdering a platonic guy pal, Care will torment the two teenagers,
goading Jack, her pervy computer geek protector to commit some absolutely
heinous acts.
There
is no getting around the rough violence of Grace.
By the same token, there is no missing the spectacular fireworks unleashed by
Apinya Sakuljaroensuk as Grace. She might just be the horror villainess of our
age. Her meltdowns are a thing to behold, but that doesn’t make it any easier
to watch her go to work on Care and Ple. On the other side of the coin,
Napasasi Surawan and Hataichat Eurkittiroj just look distressingly distressed
as Care and Ple, respectively.
By
its nature, this film is just a tricky act to pull off. Frankly, the sadistic
cruelty meted out is just no fun whatsoever. Yet, if Donsawai & Homchuen
had watered it down to any extent, the film might have flirted with kitsch.
They clearly decided to err on the side of the courage of their convictions. As
a result, nobody can question their artistic integrity or the earnestness of
their critique of unfettered social media and Millennial nihilism. Yet, like
the Mo Brothers’ Killers, Grace will just wear you down.
