Manikin

About This Movie

Manikin (2025) dives deep into the eerie realm of grief and nostalgia. Lola’s daily ritual of replaying Christmas morning with her mannequin son, Leo, creates a haunting atmosphere. The film's pacing lingers, echoing her emotional state as time seems to stand still. Practical effects are minimal, yet they heighten the surreal quality of her relationship with Leo—he's both a comfort and a reminder of loss. The performances are raw, with Lola’s portrayal of desolation and longing resonating powerfully. It’s distinct because it doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable aspects of memory and the lengths one might go to escape reality. You really feel the weight of her loneliness in every scene.

Explores themes of grief and nostalgiaUnique premise with a surreal touchStrong central performance