The new horror film "Saccharine," now available on Shudder, centers on Hana, a medical student grappling with an eating disorder and a desire for weight loss. The film, directed by Natalie Erika James, uses extreme measures to illustrate the protagonist's struggles and the dark consequences of her choices.
Hana, portrayed by Midori Francis, is introduced in the midst of a binge, with the film visually depicting her bulimic tendencies. Driven by a desire to shed weight, gain confidence, and potentially attract a university gym fitness instructor named Alanya (Madeleine Madden), Hana joins a 12-week workout challenge. Her academic life, which includes participating in autopsy dissections, provides a stark contrast to her personal insecurities.
Disturbed by her own low self-esteem, likely influenced by her family history, Hana encounters an old friend who has lost significant weight using a supplement called "The Gray." This supplement is described as enabling weight loss while allowing one to eat freely. Upon investigation, Hana discovers the supplement's primary ingredient is human ash. Facing prohibitive costs for the genuine product, Hana resorts to synthesizing her own version using cremated remains from the autopsy lab.
As Hana begins to lose weight rapidly, her efforts are noticed. However, the film introduces a disturbing side effect: Hana begins to experience visions of the deceased individual whose remains she has consumed. These are not hallucinations but appear to be a manifestation of the person seeking retribution. The film explores the visceral and psychological toll of Hana's extreme actions.
"Saccharine" has drawn comparisons to other films that explore themes of body horror, obsession, and extreme measures for self-improvement, including "The Substance" and "Flux Gourmet." Critics have noted Francis's performance as central to navigating the film's disturbing narrative. The film utilizes practical effects to depict gruesome sequences, including autopsy scenes and Hana's eating binges, aiming to provoke a visceral reaction from the audience.
Director and screenwriter James attempts to delve into the complexities of "healthy" in the modern world, examining both physical appearance and psychological self-image. While the film is noted for its unsettling practicality and thematic exploration, some reviews suggest that its reliance on shock value and visceral disgust may overshadow its narrative substance, leading to a conclusion that prioritizes disturbing imagery over logical resolution.