The 2022 film Fresh draws viewers into what appears to be an innocent romantic story on the surface, but soon reveals the dark and unsettling truths lurking beneath. The movie ambitiously tackles modern society’s consumption habits, the dynamics of trust in relationships, and the darker aspects of human nature. However, this bold premise is overshadowed by weaknesses in the screenplay as the story progresses.

The Darkness Behind Romance

The film begins with the meeting of Noa (Daisy Edgar-Jones) and Steve (Sebastian Stan). Noa, a woman worn down by the exhausting dynamics of modern dating, encounters Steve, a charismatic and confident doctor. The rapidly developing romantic connection between the two offers a hopeful tone in the first half of the film. However, this romantic atmosphere quickly gives way to tension and discomfort as the true nature of the story is revealed.

When Steve’s unusual and dark secret comes to light, the film gains a thrilling and horrifying edge. At this point, Fresh successfully creates a tension-filled atmosphere reminiscent of the Hannibal series. However, the inability to maintain this tension consistently becomes one of the film’s biggest issues in the second half.

Weaknesses in the Screenplay and Rushed Execution

The first half of the film takes ample time to delve into the characters’ motivations and relationships. However, the second half replaces this depth with rapidly unfolding events and abrupt dialogues. Particularly, Noa’s internal conflicts and Steve’s dark past are not explored thoroughly enough, making the characters’ actions feel inconsistent and underdeveloped at times. The finale, in particular, feels rushed, leaving the audience with a sense of incompleteness.

A Creative but Flawed Attempt

Fresh is a film that dares to explore a unique and provocative concept but struggles to fully realize its potential due to inexperience in execution. While the first half showcases undeniable promise, the rushed and uneven second half may leave viewers disappointed. That said, for those seeking an unconventional and daring cinematic experience, Fresh is worth a watch—just keep your expectations in check.

In conclusion, Fresh is a film that starts with a bold and creative vision but falters in its execution. It offers a gripping and unsettling exploration of modern relationships and societal obsessions, but its narrative flaws prevent it from becoming a truly memorable experience.