Men (2022) Explained

Men, a 2022 psychological horror film written and directed by Alex Garland, explores themes of trauma, grief, and the pervasiveness of toxic masculinity. The film follows Harper Marlowe (Jessie Buckley), a woman seeking solace in the English countryside after the death of her abusive husband, James (Rory Kinnear).

Plot and Themes

Harper’s Journey: Harper’s idyllic escape is shattered by a series of unsettling encounters with men who all share James’ face. These encounters range from the awkward to the overtly threatening, mirroring Harper’s struggle to reconcile her past trauma.

Masculinity as a Monolith: The recurring motif of the same male face embodies the film’s central theme: the idea that men, particularly those who embody toxic masculinity, represent a singular, oppressive force.

Body Horror and Symbolism: Men utilizes graphic body horror and unsettling imagery to depict the psychological torment Harper endures. The film is rife with symbolism, such as the forbidden fruit Harper eats upon arrival, hinting at the violation and punishment she experiences.

Interpretations and Endings

Open to Discussion: Men is a deliberately ambiguous film, leaving much open to interpretation. The ending, particularly the sequence of grotesque rebirths, has sparked numerous discussions.

Breaking the Cycle of Abuse: One interpretation views the ending as a metaphor for Harper confronting and ultimately overcoming the cycle of abuse she endured. By physically overpowering the final manifestation of James, she reclaims her agency and asserts her strength.

Conclusion: A Haunting Exploration

Men is a disturbing and thought-provoking film that lingers long after the credits roll. Garland’s masterful use of horror elements compels viewers to confront uncomfortable realities about gender dynamics and the lasting impact of trauma.

Questions and Answers

Q: Is Men a horror movie?

A: Yes, Men falls under the psychological horror genre, employing disturbing imagery and suspense to explore themes of trauma and fear.

Q: What is the significance of the green apple?

A: The green apple, referred to as “forbidden fruit” by Geoffrey, could represent the violation of Harper’s sense of security and the beginning of her descent into a nightmarish reality.

Q: Why do all the men look the same?

A: This is a key part of the film’s symbolism. It suggests that the various men represent different facets of the same oppressive force – toxic masculinity – that Harper is battling.

Q: What is the meaning of the ending?

A: The ending is open to interpretation. One view is that it signifies Harper’s triumph over the trauma inflicted upon her.

Q: Is Men worth watching?

A: Men is a challenging but rewarding film for those who enjoy thought-provoking horror with a strong thematic core. However, its disturbing content may not be suitable for all viewers.