We present a challenge for partners in committed relationships who enjoy the horror genre: Sit down with your loved one and stream Together. The 2025 indie hit just made its online premiere on the Hulu service. On the surface, it may seem like conventional physical horror, but beneath Together exists a profound contemplation about our choices in loving our partners.
An Introductory Film Exploring Partnership Complexities
Together represents the debut feature-length film for director Michael Shanks. It showcases actors Alison Brie and Dave Franco as Tim and Millie, an unmarried couple that have been together for ten years. Having wed in actuality in 2017, the actors contribute a particular energy to their characters, masterfully depicting both the strengths and weaknesses of a committed partnership.
The story starts when Millie and Tim move from the urban environment to the rural area for her career. A somewhat stereotypical plot device, of course, but that’s largely where the conventions end. Together becomes as much a deep dive into the psyche of the partnership as it is a body horror flick.
A Paranormal Spark
While trekking near their new home, a violent storm occurs, and the two fall into an subterranean cavern. After being trapped overnight there and eventually escaping, a supernatural entity takes hold of the couple. This force induces a supernatural closeness between them that goes far beyond typical partnership.
The whole movie is a slow burn fright fest, blending moments of dreamlike terrors, disturbing (but never too gross) biological grotesqueries, and authentically humorous exchanges (sometimes amidst something grotesque). Michael Shanks skillfully blends these components expertly and delivers them in a gradually swelling atmosphere of fear.
Layered Performances
A large part of Together is only the two lead actors, and they skillfully illustrate numerous complexities to the characters’ relationship. Her self-assurance and emotional bond is suffering due to a lack of intimacy. Her underlying frustration of Tim for his reluctance to focus on anything other than his struggling artistic pursuits inexorably rises.
Conversely, Tim experiences isolation and separated by Millie, who’s the impetus they’ve moved to the country and removed from his support system. He is terrified of the concept of completely losing his personal autonomy in another person. This fear is amplified by the circumstance he does not operate a vehicle and relies on Millie for getting around.
Shanks’ smartest move in this movie refrains from painting one partner or the other the definite antagonist.
Both characters face the type of challenges that arise in any relationship after ten years. Deep down, they have affection for one another. They still laugh together, comfort one another, and are vulnerable at times. But under the surface, there’s an persistent undercurrent of doubt about their bond.
Thematic Depth
While the supernatural forces in Together symbolize these concerns of codependency and fully committing to another person, the allegory avoids being hamfisted or heavy-handed. Instead, these visceral horror elements present a ideal counterpart to the relationship narrative. Both the horror and the drama enhance each other in a mutually beneficial way.
A Debated Finale
Together’s final act, which won’t be spoiled here, has left audiences divided on the movie's final takeaway about codependent relationships. Reports indicate that those not in relationships have seen the movie as a strong argument for avoiding commitment. On the other hand, some couples having disagreements found that the film ultimately assisted them resolve their issues.
Whether you’re single or coupled up, your own reaction could act as a telling indicator of how you view relationships. Will the conclusion plant anxiety and horror, or a heartwarming sense of hope? Will you identify in one of the characters and feel frustration, or simply look at your significant other and state, “We could get through that together”?
Regardless of the outcome, Together is an test you can experience right now.
Together is currently playing on the streaming service Hulu now.
