Here's a dare for partners in committed relationships who appreciate horror films: Get comfortable with your loved one and view Together. This 2025 indie hit recently had its launch on a streaming platform on Hulu. On the surface, it may seem like typical biological terror, but within Together exists a profound examination about the ways we decide to love each other.
An Introductory Film Investigating The Nuances of Love
Together represents the introductory feature for director Michael Shanks. It stars Dave Franco and Alison Brie as a couple named Tim and Millie, an unmarried couple that have been together for a decade. Married in real life in 2017, the actors infuse a unique chemistry to their characters, expertly portraying both the good and bad of a committed partnership.
The story commences when Tim and Millie transition from the big city to the countryside for Millie’s job. A somewhat stereotypical plot device, sure, but that’s primarily where the conventions conclude. Together becomes as much a deep dive into the psyche of the couple's dynamic as it is a film about physical terror.
A Paranormal Spark
While hiking near their rural residence, a violent storm occurs, and the protagonists fall into an underground cave. After being trapped overnight there and finally finding a way out, a mysterious influence begins influencing the duo. This force compels a paranormal intimacy between them that goes well past emotional intimacy.
The whole movie is a methodically building fright fest, blending moments of fever-dream horrors, unsettling (but tastefully done) body horror, and authentically humorous exchanges (sometimes in the middle of something disturbing). The director weaves these elements together expertly and wraps them up in a gradually swelling atmosphere of fear.
Complex Characterizations
A great deal of Together is only the two lead actors, and they masterfully render countless layers to the partnership at the film's core. Her self-assurance and sense of connection is deteriorating due to a lack of intimacy. Her underlying frustration of Tim for his hesitance to focus on anything other than his failing musical ambitions gradually emerges.
Conversely, Tim feels trapped and cut off by Millie, who’s the impetus they’ve moved to the country and far away from his social circle. He fears the notion of completely losing his individual identity in his partner. This fear is further exacerbated by the reality he can’t drive and relies on Millie for transportation.
Shanks’ smartest move is that he refrains from painting Tim or Millie the obvious villain.
Both characters grapple with the type of challenges that are inherent in long-term unions over a long period. At their core, they have affection for one another. They share moments of joy, offer support, and open up at times. But below this facade, there’s an unavoidable undercurrent of doubt about their future together.
Symbolism and Metaphor
While the otherworldly presence in Together represent these anxieties of codependency and totally devoting oneself to another person, the metaphor does not come across as hamfisted or pretentious. Instead, these ickier, creepier moments provide a perfect parallel to the interpersonal storytelling. Both the horror and the drama work together in harmony.
A Controversial Conclusion
Together’s final act, which is best experienced firsthand, has left audiences divided on the movie's final takeaway about codependent relationships. Reports indicate that single viewers have interpreted the film as a compelling reason for remaining unattached. On the other hand, some couples who were in conflict found that the film ultimately assisted them make up.
Whether you’re single or coupled up, your own response could act as a great barometer of how you view relationships. Will the finale inspire anxiety and horror, or a uplifting feeling of optimism? Will you recognize your own traits in either protagonist and yell at the screen, or simply glance toward your significant other and state, “I’d do that for you”?
Regardless of the outcome, Together is an experiment you can embark on today.
Together is available to watch on Hulu at present.
