Three is a 2024 psychological horror film by the Nayla Al Khaja, the first female film director-producer in the United Arab Emirates. Co-written by Al Khaja, Ben Williams, and John Collee, the film explores issues of mental illness, culture, and the science-spirituality interface.
Plot Overview
The story follows Ahmed, a young boy played by Saud Alzarooni, who suddenly stutters and claims to hear voices. His mother Maryam, a successful single parent played by Faten Ahmed, grows worried as Ahmed’s condition worsens. Seeking a solution, Maryam consults a Western psychiatrist, Dr. Mark Holly (Jefferson Hall). After traditional medicine fails to provide answers, Maryam reverts to age-old spiritual remedies, creating a clash between modern psychiatry and ancient beliefs. The film interrogates faith, science, and the extent to which a mother will go for her son.
Cast
Jefferson Hall as Dr. Mark Holly Faten Ahmed as Maryam Saud Alzarooni as Ahmed Noura Alabed as Noora Mohannad Bin Huthail as supporting character
Themes and Reception
Three has been noted for its exploration of the clash between the practices and beliefs of medicine in the West and the spirituality of the Middle East.
The movie examines the stigma associated with mental illness in some cultures along with the extreme steps taken when everything else fails. Critics have commended the film for its tension-filled atmosphere and its abandonment of typical jump scare tactics in favor of more gradual suspenseful builds. As noted in The National News, the film lacks cheap scares which renders true suspense, transforming it into an exhilarating supernatural tale.
Although the film offers captivating concepts, several critiques suggest it at times fails to properly pace itself and fully commit to the themes it sets out. Furthermore, Screen Daily mentioned the film has “something of a tonal misfire,” sagging narratively when it comes to providing scares or articulating its cultural commentary.
Director’s Vision
Nayla Al Khaja seeks to address the anthropological intricacies of exorcism in the UAE, drawing influence from witnessing one as a child. InSession Film interviewed her where she highlighted the need to incorporate cross-cultural beliefs of mental illness and the prominent love of a mother towards her son.
Conclusion
Three intertwines psychological horror with cultural discourse, marking a significant moment in the Emirati film industry.
Even though the film may not appeal to everyone, its integration of science with spirituality offers an intriguing approach. The film’s concentration on atmosphere instead of traditional horror elements is unique for the genre.