Hellbender: Storyline

In this film, mother and daughter are the nuclei. This film encapsulates their place in this world as witches or, more specifically, Hellbenders. However, if one were to remove the central element of witchcraft, the underlying story is quite common. A parent wants better for their offspring. Nevertheless, the progeny must come into their own. The choice is always left in the hands of the wielder. Before the end credits, the mother begins to understand this lesson well. 

Film Elements

The film is highbrow in its artistry. There is an abstract nature to this film. Depending on the viewer, it could be beautiful or fall flat. There are few characters in the movie, so it’s minimalistic. Most of the scenes occur between the mother and daughter in one setting. So the focus is on how the two relate to their fate as Hellbenders and each other. With a minimalist cast, it becomes more challenging to retain the attention of the audience especially given the movement of the film. 

Hellbender is not a high-energy movie. Instead, Hellbender moves slowly and is almost cerebral. However, the two primary characters carry the entire film masterfully, explaining Zelda Adams’s recognition. In 2021 Adams won best acting at the Mar Del Plata Film Festival. 

Leaning in For More

There is much to digest in the film. Hellbender has a heavy link to metal as it serves as the link that connects the mother and daughter. Fascinatingly there is also a link between the movie and a band by the same name. The imagery is loud and looming. At times the imagery can be brutal to watch. However, it is not dissociated from the film’s significance.

Hellbender offers a fresh perspective on witches and uses the creative design to drive home classic truths. Hellbender is worthy of a watch if for nothing more than its originality. If you have time for a bewitching tale of witches, Hellbender can be found streaming on Shudder.