Ultrasound is one of those movies that will make viewers second guess everything they think they know — it played at Tribeca 2021.
Ultrasound played at the 2021 Tribeca Film Festival and it is one of those films that will make its viewers second guess every single thing that they think they know. This suspenseful thriller is meant to keep the audience on the edge of their seats while they try to figure out what is going on. Early on there is a twist that changes everything — and from that moment on it is a puzzle that is nearly impossible to put together.
In Ultrasound, a man named Glen is driving home late and night when his car breaks down. He is welcomed into a nearby home that belongs to Arthur and Cyndi, and has a night he won’t ever forget. Things get weird, and he is presented with an offer that he cannot refuse — to spend the night with Cyndi. As the story unravels, more and more people are brought into it and viewers will discover that many are effected by what is happening here.
What Works In Ultrasound
Fans of creepy, intense thrillers are sure to love Ultrasound. It does a great job of sucking in the audience from the start, and making them believe something — before ripping it all away from them and slowly driving them mad as the story goes on.
This is one of those movies that is full of so many twists and turns, viewers will not know what is going on until they are slapped in this face with it. It is in the final few moments of the film that it all pulls together, exceptionally well at that.
The lead actors do a great job of playing their roles perfectly, keeping the audience on their toes. Because they are so good at being believable, the viewers play right into the trap of the film. The cinematography and score — especially during the moments where scenery changes back and forth (no spoilers here) — heighten the intensity and bring the film to a whole new level.
What Doesn’t Work In Ultrasound
There are several different stories to tell throughout this film, and the going back and forth between characters can feel a bit disjointed and confusing at time. In the end, it all makes sense, but should be noted it can be a bit of struggle to figure out on the first watch.
Overall Thoughts
Ultrasound is part thriller, part suspense, and part science fiction. It is important to remain engaged the entire time because if you miss something, it could effect your enjoyment of the film. There is a lot going on here, with a lot of puzzle pieces that change mid-film. That being said, it is ridiculously enjoyable, and those who enjoy a good mystery will have a lot of fun figuring this one out.
About Ultrasound
Driving home late at night during a heavy rainstorm, Glen experiences car trouble. Near where his car gets stuck, he spots a house, knocks on the door and is greeted by an oddly friendly middle-aged man, Arthur, and his younger wife, Cyndi. The strange couple pours him a drink, and then more drinks, followed by an unexpected offer that Glen can’t refuse.
Elsewhere, a young woman, Katie, is feeling emotionally weighed down by a secret romantic arrangement that feels like a textbook case of gaslighting. And at the same time, in a nondescript research facility, medical professional Shannon begins questioning her role in a bizarre experiment, fearing that she’s doing more harm than good.
Ultrasound played at the 2021 Tribeca Film Festival.
Tessa Smith is a Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer-approved Film and TV Critic. On Camera personality and TV / Film Critic with 10+ years of experience in video editing, writing, editing, moderating, and hosting.