Consider this a test for long-term couples who enjoy the horror genre: Get comfortable with your significant other and watch Together. The 2025 indie hit has now made its launch on a streaming platform on the Hulu service. Outwardly, it might appear like conventional body horror, but inside Together resides a deep contemplation about the ways we decide to love one another.
An Introductory Film Delving into The Nuances of Love
Together marks the introductory feature for filmmaker Michael Shanks. It showcases actors Alison Brie and Dave Franco as Tim and Millie, partners that have been together for over ten years. United in marriage in actuality in 2017, the two stars contribute a special spark to their roles, masterfully depicting both the strengths and weaknesses of a long-term relationship.
The story starts when Millie and Tim move from the big city to the countryside for professional reasons. A familiar plot device, sure, but that’s primarily where the cliches cease. Together transforms into as much a psychological exploration of the couple's dynamic as it is a movie featuring biological frights.
A Supernatural Catalyst
While trekking near their rural residence, a violent storm occurs, and Millie and Tim tumble into an hole in the earth. After a night spent there and finally finding a way out, a mysterious influence starts to affect the couple. This force compels a supernatural closeness between them that goes far beyond simple connection.
The entire film is a slow burn horror experience, weaving in elements of fever-dream horrors, disturbing (but tastefully done) physical transformations, and authentically humorous dialogue (sometimes in the middle of something horrific). The director weaves these elements together seamlessly and delivers them in a slowly mounting aura of dread.
Complex Characterizations
A large part of Together is exclusively the two lead actors, and they masterfully render countless layers to the characters’ relationship. Her self-assurance and feeling of intimacy is deteriorating due to a emotional and physical gap. Her unspoken irritation of Tim for his hesitance to focus on anything other than his failing musical ambitions slowly bubbles to the surface.
In contrast, Tim's character feels trapped and separated by Millie, who’s the reason they’ve moved to the country and distant from his social circle. He fears the notion of completely losing his personal autonomy in another person. This fear is further exacerbated by the fact he lacks a driver's license and needs Millie for mobility.
Shanks’ smartest move is that he avoids making either of his characters the obvious villain.
The couple grapple with the type of challenges that are inherent in any relationship after ten years. Deep down, they have affection for each other. They share moments of joy, offer support, and open up at times. But under the surface, there’s an inescapable current of uncertainty about their bond.
Thematic Depth
While the paranormal elements in Together act as a metaphor for these fears of excessive reliance and fully committing to another person, the metaphor never feels hamfisted or heavy-handed. Instead, these more disturbing, unsettling scenes provide a ideal counterpart to the interpersonal storytelling. Both the horror and the drama enhance each other in harmony.
A Controversial Conclusion
Together’s conclusion, which won’t be spoiled here, has sparked debate on the film’s ultimate message about unhealthy partnerships. Reports indicate that those not in relationships have seen the movie as a compelling reason for avoiding commitment. On the other hand, some couples who were in conflict found that the film ended up guiding them to make up.
Regardless of your relationship status, your own reaction could act as a great barometer of how you think about commitment. Will the ending plant anxiety and horror, or a positive outlook on love? Will you see yourself in Tim or Millie and feel frustration, or simply turn to your other half and utter, “We could get through that together”?
Regardless of the outcome, Together is an test you can embark on at this very moment.
Together is streaming on Hulu's platform now.
