The Forbidden Romance: Sophie Turner and Kit Harington's Journey in 'The Dreadful'
The film 'The Dreadful' is a captivating exploration of a forbidden romance, set against the backdrop of the War of the Roses during the Dark Ages. Directed by Natasha Kermani, the movie delves into the complex relationship between two women, Anne and Morwen, who find themselves in a desolate and barbaric landscape. This unique setting, as Kermani describes it, sparked her interest in the dynamic between these two characters, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of mothers-in-law and daughters-in-law.
Sophie Turner takes on the role of Anne, a woman living with her mother-in-law, Morwen, while her husband is away at war. The arrival of her childhood friend, played by Kit Harington, brings a twist to their story. As the truth about her husband's fate unfolds, their bond deepens, and a sense of unease creeps in. Kermani's approach to horror is distinct, prioritizing the characters' journeys over mere scares.
"I don't think anything I do is a horror conceit first," she says. "Everything I do is based on relationships and a character's evolution. The horror is a tool to enhance the story, to reflect the characters' fears and emotions. It's about understanding what each character is afraid of."
One intriguing aspect of the film is the casting of Turner and Harington as lovers, despite their characters' sibling-like upbringing in 'Game of Thrones'. This decision adds a layer of complexity to their relationship, as Turner herself acknowledged the oddity of the situation. Kermani, however, embraces this as a happy accident, allowing audiences to interpret their connection through the lens of a forbidden fruit.
"These characters were always childhood friends," Kermani explains. "The film explores the theme of growing up, and their reevaluation of their relationship as adults. While they are not related in the film, there's a love triangle element, creating a sense of forbidden romance. It's fascinating how the casting worked out this way."
Turner's performance is praised for its intuitive depth, capturing the character's spirituality and inner strength. Kermani's collaboration with Turner resulted in a nuanced portrayal, showcasing the character's evolution from a childlike state to a strong, intuitive individual.
'The Dreadful' draws inspiration from various sources, including a reimagining of the folk tale that inspired the classic Japanese horror film 'Onibaba'. Despite its horror elements, Kermani emphasizes that the film's core is a small-scale story about the complex relationship between two women, particularly the older and younger generations, and their struggle as their bond frays.
"The relationship between Anne and Morwen, and the tension between them, felt like a compelling narrative to explore," Kermani says. "The mythology, fantastical elements, and historical setting emerged as a result of delving into this core relationship."
The trailer for 'The Dreadful' can be viewed below, offering a glimpse into this captivating and thought-provoking horror tale.
