Julia Roberts delivers a captivating performance in Luca Guadagnino's latest film, After the Hunt, but the movie ultimately leaves this reviewer feeling disappointed. The psychological thriller, set in Yale's philosophy department, follows Roberts' character Alma, a professor vying for tenure alongside her colleague Hank, played by Andrew Garfield.
The plot thickens when Alma's protégé Maggie, portrayed by Ayo Edebiri, accuses Hank of sexual assault after a dinner party. Alma finds herself caught between the two, while her own closely-guarded secret threatens to resurface. Despite strong performances from the cast, including Garfield as an entitled and handsy academic, the film struggles to deliver a satisfying resolution.
Screenwriter Nora Garrett and director Guadagnino present a cast of complex, troubled characters without judgment, but the film appears to shy away from making any definitive statement. While Roberts proves she still commands the screen at 57, the movie lacks a propelling force, making for an unresolved experience.
After the Hunt premiered at the Venice Film Festival and screened at the BFI London Film Festival on October 11, 13, and 18. It is now in UK cinemas.
