Amulet (2020) Review

Plagued by flashbacks of war, homeless refugee Tomaz (Alec Secareanu) struggles by as a day labourer, spending his evenings in an abandoned building with other disadvantaged individuals. This humble existence is turned on its head when pieces fall into place leading to a chance encounter with nun Sister Claire (Imelda Staunton) presenting an opportunity he cannot refuse.

Agreeing to help care for an elderly woman, Tomaz moves into the home of the socially awkward Magda (Carla Juri), helping around the house with odd jobs. Seemingly tormented by symptoms of PTSD, Tomaz grows close to the reserved woman who curiously appears to be struggling with her own demons.

As the pair grow closer, odd occurrences start to trouble Tomaz who wonders about the nature of the elderly woman’s sickness. As the feature progresses the audience begins to suspect through flashbacks that Tomaz’s own narrative is perhaps not as suggested.

Amulet burns slowly with questions building – the motivations of characters kept concealed until the dramatic climax. We learn the horror of the reality and the dark pasts which have led the protagonists to this very moment, leaving the viewer trying to process the moral dilemma presented.

The cast deliver excellent performances, Secareanu and Staunton in particular, but unfortunately it doesn’t make up for what feels like a bit of a slog.

The surreal conclusion is enjoyable but feels too little too late, with a compelling story undersold by a slow script. Amulet does have a lot going for it and the unexpected twists will keep viewers engaged, but given the serious themes and stellar cast it felt a little flat overall.

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