Title: If There Be Thorns
Year: 2015
Genre: TV Movie, Thriller, Drama
Rating: 5.9
Cast: Heather Graham, Jason Lewis, Rachael Carpani, Emily Tennant, Mackenzie Gray
Description: The suffocating opulence of the Dollanganger mansion mirrors the suffocating secrets within, a visual metaphor perfectly executed in 'If There Be Thorns'. This sequel, a chilling exploration of family dysfunction and the corrosive power of inherited trauma, transcends the typical melodrama of its source material. While the gothic atmosphere is undeniably captivating, it's the nuanced portrayal of its characters grappling with their past that truly elevates the film. We witness not just the outward manifestations of their pain, but the insidious ways trauma manifests in their relationships, creating a palpable sense of unease that lingers long after the credits roll. The film’s strength lies in its unflinching look at the cycle of abuse and the desperate attempts to break free from its grasp. A powerful, albeit unsettling, viewing experience.