Watch The Falling

The Falling is a 2014 British drama film directed by Carol Morley that stars Maxine Peake, Maisie Williams, and Florence Pugh. Set in an all-girls school in rural England during the late 1960s, the movie explores the complex relationships and emotional turbulence among a group of students after they experience an inexplicable phenomenon that pushes them to their physical and mental limits.

The movie begins with a seemingly idyllic picture of the school and its students, who are portrayed as innocent, naive, and obedient young women. Williams plays Lydia, a rebellious and enigmatic girl who struggles to cope with her troubled family background and the social norms of the time. Pugh plays Abbie, her close friend and confidant, who shares her passion for music, literature, and art. Peake plays Miss Mantel, a strict and conservative teacher who embodies the traditional values of the school and clashes with the students' desire for freedom and expression.

One day, during a fainting spell in the schoolyard, Lydia and several other girls witness a strange and eerie phenomenon that defies explanation. They start to experience a contagious trance-like state that causes them to lose consciousness and fall to the ground. As the frequency and intensity of these episodes increase, the school administration and parents become increasingly alarmed and seek medical assistance, but to no avail. The girls' condition deteriorates, and they begin to exhibit disturbing and erratic behaviors that defy their own personalities and social roles. Meanwhile, Lydia and Abbie's friendship is tested by jealousy, sexual tension, and jealousy.

The Falling is a haunting and mesmerizing movie that skillfully blends the supernatural and the psychological elements of the story. Morley's direction is visually stunning and evocative, using the natural surroundings of the school and the changing seasons to create a dreamlike and unsettling atmosphere. The movie is also accompanied by a haunting and beautiful soundtrack that adds to its emotional and sensory impact.

The performances of the actors are another highlight of the movie, with Williams, Pugh, and Peake delivering nuanced and complex portrayals of their characters. Williams, in particular, shines as Lydia, capturing the inner turmoil and self-doubt of a young woman struggling to find her identity and meaning in a world that denies her agency and voice. Pugh, who was relatively unknown at the time, gives an impressive debut performance as Abbie, conveying both her idealism and vulnerability. Peake, as the antagonist of the story, portrays Miss Mantel with a subtle blend of pride, regret, and resentment, making her more than a one-dimensional caricature.

Overall, The Falling is a thought-provoking and emotional movie that challenges the viewer's assumptions about gender, identity, and power relationships. It's a film that rewards repeated viewings due to its rich symbolism, open-ended narrative, and nuanced characterization. If you're looking for a movie that combines mystery, drama, and beauty, The Falling is a must-see.

The Falling is a 2015 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.3 and a MetaScore of 71.