What happens when a psychopath finds herself in a world that might be just as twisted as she is? That’s the question at the heart of Victorian Psycho, a dark thriller set in 1858.
The film follows Winifred Notty (Maika Monroe), an unusual governess who arrives at the gothic Ensor House to look after the household’s children. Along with teaching them table manners and family history, Winifred has another little secret: she’s hiding her own psychopathic tendencies.
Things take an even darker turn when members of the household staff begin disappearing, leaving the owners wondering whether their new governess is quite what she seems.
Based on the novel by Virginia Feito, Victorian Psycho explores the mind of a woman trapped in a society where women and children had very little freedom or control over their lives. The story also plays with the idea of madness, asking whether the truly disturbed individuals are those who challenge society or the society itself.
Directed by Zachary Wigon, the film brings together an impressive cast. Monroe is joined by Thomasin McKenzie, Jason Isaacs, Ruth Wilson, Evie Templeton and Jacobi Jupe.
With its gothic setting, dark humour and unsettling look at Victorian society, Victorian Psycho promises something a little different from the usual period thriller. And with a title that deliberately calls to mind American Psycho, there’s plenty of reason to be curious about just how far this story is willing to go.
Stills Courtesy of Anton
