Foe – FRANK'S FILM REVIEW

Frank’s Film Review: Foe
⭐⭐⭐⭐ /5

The title of the movie Foe grabs your attention immediately. Simple yet layered with meaning, “foe” can be interpreted differently throughout the film. Does it refer to the AI replica introduced in the story? The strained and fractured relationship between the lead characters? The authoritarian grip the government has over its citizens? Or perhaps it’s a play on the word “faux,” meaning something artificial? It’s likely all four, and this layered ambiguity feels intentional, setting the stage for the unfolding complex narrative.

Directed by Garth Davis and based on the novel by Iain Reid, Foe is set in 2065. At its core, the film follows Junior (Paul Mescal) and Henrietta (Saoirse Ronan), a married couple whose strained relationship faces even more pressure when the government intervenes. Junior is enlisted for a mysterious space mission, leaving his wife behind. I’ll avoid spoilers, but the story builds to a dramatic twist that changes everything.

Paul Mescal delivers yet another powerhouse performance. He can communicate emotion with his eyes alone, and Foe gives him plenty of material to work with. He plays Junior with a simmering intensity, perfectly capturing a man’s anger, confusion, and vulnerability at odds with forces far out of his control. And yes, Mescal continues to lean into his status as a modern-day heartthrob. There are fleeting glimpses of nudity, and the camera doesn’t shy away from showcasing his physique—particularly his derrière. It’s tastefully done, not excessive, but enough to capture attention.

Saoirse Ronan shines as Henrietta, or Hen for short, bringing quiet strength and complexity to her role. Her performance is magnetic, simmering with untapped emotions, sometimes reminiscent of the late Anne Heche. Mescal and Ronan create a tense and heartbreaking dynamic that keeps viewers engaged.

The visuals in Foe are stunning. Cinematographer Mátyás Erdély captures every frame with meticulous detail, from the stark, lonely landscapes to the sleek yet oppressive interiors. The film’s moody atmosphere has a haunting beauty, which some may find too grim, but I couldn’t look away.

That said, Foe may not appeal to everyone. Its pacing is deliberate, relying on the performances and tension to carry the story. While the reveal at the end is surprising, some may find the overall tone too dark or the themes too heavy. However, for those who appreciate thoughtful, emotionally charged sci-fi with existential questions, Foe delivers.

At its heart, Foe explores identity, relationships, and how technology and control shape our humanity. It raises significant questions without easy answers, trusting the audience to reflect and interpret. This makes it all the more powerful.