David Moreau’s MadS is a relentless, pulse-pounding psychological horror-thriller that pushes the boundaries of experimental filmmaking. Released in 2024, this French production is a cinematic fever dream, blending drug-fueled paranoia, body horror, and a nightmarish unraveling of reality. Shot in one continuous take, MadS offers an immersive and disorienting experience that traps the audience in the chaos of its protagonist’s spiraling night.
While the film isn’t without its flaws, it stands out as one of the boldest entries in the horror genre in recent years. Equal parts thrilling and exhausting, MadS is a film that demands your attention and leaves you questioning what you just witnessed long after the credits roll.
Plot Overview
The story follows Romain (Milton Riche), an entitled teenager living a life of excess and privilege. On the night of his birthday, Romain and his friends head to a seedy drug dealer’s house to celebrate. There, they are introduced to a mysterious new drug that promises an unparalleled high. Against better judgment, Romain takes it—and that decision sets off a chain of events that spirals wildly out of control.
Shortly after leaving the dealer’s house, Romain encounters a bloodied, bandaged woman who forces her way into his car. She cannot speak but plays an ominous recording on her phone—a cryptic message about horrific experiments and an urgent need to escape. What initially seems like an isolated incident soon escalates into a series of surreal and violent encounters as Romain’s grip on reality begins to crumble.
Desperate to maintain some semblance of normalcy, Romain returns to his friends and attempts to continue partying. But his erratic behavior and the increasingly bizarre events around him alienate those closest to him, leaving him isolated and vulnerable. As the night progresses, Romain is drawn deeper into a horrifying conspiracy involving human experimentation, body mutilation, and his own fractured psyche.
What Makes MadS Stand Out?
1. One-Take Cinematography
The film’s most striking feature is its single continuous take—a bold choice that amplifies the tension and immerses viewers in Romain’s chaotic journey. The camera follows him relentlessly through dimly lit streets, crowded clubs, and claustrophobic apartments, capturing every moment of his unraveling in real time.
This technique isn’t just a stylistic flourish; it serves a narrative purpose by mirroring Romain’s drug-induced haze and growing paranoia. The lack of cuts creates an unrelenting sense of immediacy, making it impossible for the audience to look away or catch their breath. It’s an impressive technical achievement that elevates the film’s impact.
2. A Unique Blend of Genres
While MadS is primarily a psychological horror film, it defies easy categorization by incorporating elements of body horror, thriller, and even social commentary. The film explores themes of privilege, hedonism, and moral decay through its characters’ reckless behavior and their inability to confront the consequences of their actions.
At its core, MadS is about losing control—over one’s body, mind, and destiny. This theme is reinforced through grotesque imagery and unsettling sequences that blur the line between hallucination and reality. Fans of films like Climax (2018) or Requiem for a Dream (2000) will find echoes of those works here but with a distinctly French sensibility.
3. Stellar Performances
Milton Riche delivers a career-defining performance as Romain, capturing both the arrogance of youth and the vulnerability of someone completely out of their depth. His portrayal is raw and unflinching; you can feel his desperation as he tries—and fails—to regain control over his rapidly deteriorating situation.
Laurie Pavy shines as Ana, Romain’s girlfriend who becomes increasingly frustrated with his erratic behavior but remains tethered to him out of loyalty—or perhaps fear. Lucille Guillame also delivers a strong performance as Julia, Ana’s best friend who serves as a voice of reason amidst the chaos.
Special mention must be made for the unnamed bandaged woman (played by Mathilde Duret), whose haunting presence drives much of the film’s tension despite her lack of dialogue.
Where MadS Falters
1. Underdeveloped Characters
While Romain is given plenty of screen time to showcase his descent into madness, many supporting characters feel underwritten. Their motivations are often unclear or shallow, making it difficult to fully invest in their fates. This lack of depth occasionally detracts from the emotional weight of the story.
2. Pacing Issues
The film’s relentless energy is both its greatest strength and its Achilles’ heel. While the first hour is gripping and intense, the final act feels slightly overlong and repetitive. Some sequences could have been trimmed without sacrificing impact.
3. Frustrating Decision-Making
As with many horror films, MadS suffers from characters making bafflingly poor choices—especially Romain himself. While this can be attributed to his drug-addled state, it may test viewers’ patience at times.
Themes: A Dark Reflection on Privilege and Consequences
Beneath its horror exterior, MadS offers sharp commentary on privilege and entitlement. Romain embodies a generation accustomed to getting what they want without facing consequences—until one fateful night forces him to confront his own fragility.
The film also explores themes of isolation and disconnection in an increasingly chaotic world. Despite being surrounded by friends at various points in the story, Romain remains fundamentally alone—a reflection of how indulgence can alienate us from others.
Visuals & Sound Design: A Nightmarish Landscape
The visual style of MadS is gritty and unpolished—a deliberate choice that enhances its raw energy. The dim lighting and handheld camera work create an atmosphere of unease, while sudden bursts of violence are made all the more shocking by their stark contrast with quieter moments.
The sound design deserves special praise for its role in building tension. From distorted club music to eerie ambient noises that creep into scenes unexpectedly, every auditory element contributes to the film’s oppressive atmosphere.
Final Thoughts: A Bold but Divisive Experience
MadS isn’t for everyone—it’s intense, chaotic, and often uncomfortable to watch. Its experimental approach demands patience and willingness to embrace ambiguity; those expecting traditional scares or straightforward storytelling may leave disappointed.
However, for fans of psychological horror or innovative filmmaking techniques like single-take cinematography, MadS offers something truly unique. It may not be perfect—few experiments are—but it succeeds in delivering an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Rating: 4/5
While not without its flaws (MadS could benefit from tighter pacing and stronger character development), it stands out as one of 2024’s most daring films—a must-watch for those who crave boundary-pushing horror with substance beneath its surface gore.
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