If you’ve got a few spare moments this weekend, it’s worth checking out Megalyn Echikunwoke’s Weathering, a new psychological horror film that just hit Netflix. This disturbing horror thriller is a deeply-felt portrayal of systemic racism in healthcare and the consequences therein, following a journalist whose pregnancy almost cost her her life… and maybe something more. Weathering stars Alexis Louder and features strong supporting turns from Alfre Woodard and Jermaine Fowler.
Per Netflix: “After losing her baby and nearly her life during labor, a journalist unravels amid disturbing visions and chilling attacks as she grieves at home.”
A pointed and terrifying commentary on what happens when Black women are ignored, Weathered is guaranteed to get people talking. Better still, the movie clocks in at just under 20 minutes. It’s an unconventional release for the streamer, especially given its penchant in recent months for longer content. While Netflix’s short film offerings are slim, Weathering could prove to be an inciting force in the platform hosting more short form horror. It’s worth noting, though, that Weathering comes with some pretty heavy triggers. There’s child loss, sexual assault, and racial trauma that will no doubt upset some viewers. While it’s still worth a watch– Echikunwoke’s short is haunting and brutal, almost urgent viewing—it will no doubt prove upsetting to some, so caution is definitely advised. Check out what some early fans are saying below:
Weathering on Netflix… 10/10 but I need the film girlies to interpret for me
— 🧊🥃🧊 (@Uungi4rmUG) April 21, 2023
There’s a short film on Netflix called “Weathering” directed by Nigerian American Megalyn Echikunwoke and starring Alexis Louder (Also Nigerian American). It’s about how Black (American?) women are ignored by the medical establishment and society. So yeah, new horror genre. 🤷️
— Movie Monster #ADOS (@Pauline98476699) April 20, 2023
WEATHERING is only 20 mins. I love the composition @netflix
— Regina Ibrahim (@ReginaIbrahim8) April 20, 2023
Weathering on Netflix is bizzare.
— Latrell Phillips – @TrizzeTrell (@TrizzeTrell23) April 18, 2023
This Weathering short film on Netflix hella triggering
— You Were Lost Until Me (@Kashankashae) April 18, 2023
WEATHERING on Netflix is complex. It has so many levels. Its a much watch. Watch it multiple times. #Netflix
— Blaiyze (@YourFutureMuse) April 16, 2023
#Weathering on #Netflix is beautiful but too short. I wanted more. I'm left wanting more…lol!
…but yeah, powerful and moving. #Loveyourself
— 💜🤎🖤🫖☕️🍷🛏♒️ (@MsMiaSharp) April 15, 2023
Just saw Weathering on Netflix! Liked it a lot. Loved the mystery, suspense and shocks!#Weathering
— GSmith/BILLIE HOLIDAY (@Kreeah) April 14, 2023
The audience reception is decidedly positive right now, and that only stands to increase as more and more viewers check out Weathering on Netflix. The streamer isn’t always the greatest with advertising new releases, though this one comes with a definite recommend. It’s an exciting propsect for Netflix and a sensational calling card for filmmaker Megalyn Echikunwoke. Transitioning from acting, Weathering is a stunning debut for Echikunwoke.
What do you think? Have you had a chance to check out Weathering yet? Let me know over on Twitter @ChadisCollins!
