Hot Milk (2025) - Film Review

      Hot Milk, 2025.

      Written and Directed by Rebecca Lenkiewicz.

      Featuring Emma Mackey, Fiona Shaw, Vicky Krieps, Vincent Perez, Yann Gael, Patsy Ferran, Yorgos Tsiantoulas, Paris Thomopoulos, Korina Gougouli, Denia Mimerini, Dimitris Oikonomidis, and Electra Sarri.

      SYNOPSIS:

      A mother and daughter venture to the Spanish coast in search of a cure for the mother’s unusual illness. During this journey, the daughter uncovers an alternate reality, far removed from her domineering mother. Anthropology enthusiast Sofia (Emma Mackey) feels confined, akin to being in a wheelchair, much like her controlling mother, Rose (Fiona Shaw), who constantly demands care. Elements of fantasy underscore this notion, particularly as Rose’s inability to walk may stem from psychological issues. Hot Milk, penned and helmed by Rebecca Lenkiewicz (adapted from the novel by Deborah Levy), candidly addresses Rose’s traumatic past that has led to estrangement from her family and divorce from Sofia’s Greek father. Over time, Rose’s paralysis has intensified, prompting the pair to seek treatment in Spain from Dr. Gomez (Vincent Perez), who strives to help Rose confront her pain to enable her recovery.

      If that were to occur, Sofia’s life could become significantly more enjoyable, as she is first seen observing a couple on the beach—a role that also appears to be filled by her stand-in, as noted in the credits. Her struggles extend beyond romance; she is unable to complete her anthropology studies while caring for her mother and accompanying her to various medical visits.

      However, her yearning for more intensifies when she encounters the free-spirited Ingrid (Vicky Krieps), a woman with a mysterious and sorrowful past. Despite the instant chemistry evident between them, the film falters in adequately developing their characters. The story unfolds along well-worn conventions, eventually feeling insubstantial. While the attraction is palpable, the film lacks the necessary chemistry and emotional depth.

      This encapsulates Hot Milk's main issue: it attempts to convey deep and meaningful themes but ends up feeling vacant, as if capturing the essence of these characters from script to screen proved too daunting. While various aspects of the characters are revealed, few resonate emotionally or contribute to a more nuanced understanding of them. Despite being a supporting character, Fiona Shaw excels in portraying her troubled, controlling, and complex character, delivering poignant, heartfelt moments.

      It raises questions when visual elements suggest that a caretaker for the disabled may, in fact, be disabled herself. This approach can come across as slightly insensitive, regardless of whether Rose is genuinely impaired. Sofia feels trapped and incapable of living her life fully—a situation that shouldn’t be downplayed; nonetheless, there are subtler ways to depict this scenario. However, this may be asking too much of Hot Milk, an exceedingly dull film that culminates in a baffling conclusion that manages to be even more perplexing and tone-deaf.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★

      Robert Kojder is affiliated with the Chicago Film Critics Association, Critics Choice Association, and Online Film Critics Society. He also serves as the Reviews Editor at Flickering Myth. Check here for new reviews and follow my BlueSky or Letterboxd.