As the prime suspect in his girlfriend’s murder, everyone has it in for Ig (Daniel Radcliffe). But his fortune soon takes a bizarre turn when he starts to sprout horns on his head. These horns allow him to hear the truth from everyone he talks to, so he uses this new power to investigate the murder and uncover the true killer.
It can never be said that Daniel Radcliffe has ever rested on his laurels after the mammoth success of Harry Potter. Always seeking out ambitious and diverse projects, Radcliffe is a revelation in Alexandre Aja’s dark adaptation of Joe Hill’s novel about a man accused of killing his true love.
Radcliffe simply shines here in a cult ‘whodunit’ fairytale that has bags of style. But its success hinges squarely on Radcliffe’s performance and he doesn’t disappoint at all. The supernatural element is handled well with Radcliffe bringing believability to this fantastical tale. His reactions to the stark levels of truth being thrown at him are a joy to watch and his central relationship with Juno Temple (told in flashback) really gives the film its strong emotional core.
The supporting cast are all great too with Juno Temple, Max Minghella, Kelli Garner, David Morse and Joe Anderson all handing in stellar support. There’s also a great cameo from Heather Graham as a waitress willing to do and say anything for some minor celebrity status.
If there are downsides, it’s that the story has very predictable paths (in spite of the unpredictable nature of the premise). But this is at no fault of the cast who all do well here. Aja’s vision always stays true to the essence of Joe Hill’s book and has a distinct style that sets itself apart from other thrillers. The supernatural element brings a new dimension to the genre and makes for a very refreshing change, even if there are easily foreseeable outcomes in the narrative.
Twisted, disturbing and very inventive, Horns is a cult favourite that will divide audiences. Radcliffe is excellent though and he cements his status as the most fearless young superstar in Hollywood. Throw in strong support and a beautiful visual style and you have a most surprising and offbeat treat.
