Consider this a challenge for partners in committed relationships who appreciate horror films: Sit down with your significant other and watch Together. The critically acclaimed 2025 movie recently had its online premiere via Hulu. Outwardly, it may seem like typical body horror, but inside Together lies a profound meditation about the ways we decide to love one another.
An Introductory Film Delving into The Nuances of Love
Together marks the first full-length movie for director Michael Shanks. It stars Dave Franco and Alison Brie as a couple named Tim and Millie, a pair who are not married that have remained a couple for ten years. Married in real life in 2017, the actors bring a unique chemistry to their characters, expertly portraying both the joys and frustrations of a long-term relationship.
The plot starts when Tim and Millie move from the big city to the rural area for professional reasons. A familiar plot device, of course, but that’s primarily where the tropes end. Together transforms into as much a psychological exploration of the pair’s relationship as it is a body horror flick.
A Paranormal Spark
While hiking near their country house, a violent storm occurs, and the two discover an subterranean cavern. After spending the night there and finally finding a way out, a strange force begins influencing the duo. This force creates a otherworldly bond between them that goes well past emotional intimacy.
The complete narrative is a slow burn fright fest, blending bits of hallucinatory nightmares, disturbing (but never too gross) body horror, and surprisingly comedic dialogue (sometimes in the middle of something horrific). Michael Shanks weaves these elements together expertly and presents them in a slowly mounting atmosphere of fear.
Complex Characterizations
A significant portion of Together is only the two lead actors, and they deftly portray countless layers to the characters’ relationship. Her self-assurance and sense of connection is waning due to a lack of intimacy. Her subconscious resentment of Tim for his unwillingness to chase only his failing musical ambitions gradually emerges.
Conversely, Tim experiences isolation and cut off by Millie, who’s the cause they’ve relocated rural and distant from his social circle. He is terrified of the concept of completely losing his sense of self in his partner. This fear is amplified by the reality he lacks a driver's license and needs Millie for transportation.
The film's most intelligent aspect is that he avoids making Tim or Millie the obvious villain.
Tim and Millie confront the type of challenges that are inherent in any relationship a decade in. Fundamentally, they have affection for one another. They still laugh together, provide solace, and open up at times. But below this facade, there’s an inescapable current of uncertainty about their relationship.
Symbolism and Metaphor
While the supernatural forces in Together represent these concerns of unhealthy attachment and totally devoting oneself to another person, the metaphor avoids being overly obvious or heavy-handed. Instead, these ickier, creepier moments present a brilliant analogue to the interpersonal storytelling. Both the frights and the fights serve the other in a mutually beneficial way.
A Controversial Conclusion
Together’s conclusion, which remains unspoiled, has left audiences divided on the story's concluding statement about codependent relationships. Accounts suggest that those not in relationships have seen the movie as a powerful case for avoiding commitment. On the other hand, certain partners who were in conflict found that the film ultimately assisted them make up.
Whether you’re single or coupled up, your own interpretation could function as a great barometer of how you view relationships. Will the finale inspire feelings of uneasiness and dread, or a heartwarming sense of hope? Will you recognize your own traits in Tim or Millie and scream at your TV, or simply turn to your other half and utter, “I’d do that for you”?
Regardless of the outcome, Together is an test you can undertake today.
Together is available to watch on Hulu at present.
