Humane, the directorial debut of Caitlin Cronenberg, is a darkly humorous horror thriller that invites viewers to confront the dreadful and untenable state of the world. Set in a dystopian future ravaged by an ecological disaster, Humane follows the York family as they navigate a society where euthanasia has become a patriotic act.
Against the backdrop of resource shortages and forced population reduction goals, the York family gathers for a dinner hosted by recently retired television news anchor Charles York (Peter Gallagher) and his second wife, Dawn (Uni Park), a successful chef. The purpose of the evening is to announce the couple’s plan to enlist in Canada’s voluntary euthanasia program.
This announcement sparks conflict among the York siblings: Jared (Jay Baruchel), a professor and TV talking head; Rachel (Emily Hampshire), an under-fire business executive; Noah (Sebastian Chacon), a recovering addict; and Ashley (Alanna Bale), an aspiring actress. As Dawn gets cold feet and flees, the private subcontractor hired to perform the service, led by no-nonsense ex-corrections officer Bob (Enrico Colantoni), presses the Yorks to fulfill their contractual obligation.
Humane skillfully portrays a believable dystopian world through small details that establish the concept of a society plagued by inequities and an imbalance in the distribution of burden. The film’s bureaucratic satire is sharp, with branded vans from the Department of Citizen Strategy and cheerful Enlisters of the Week commercials.
Cronenberg’s visual sense and deft handling of tone create a unique atmosphere that blends drama, horror action, and dark humor. The film’s setting in a Romanesque and Gothic style mansion adds to its visual appeal.
While the film’s focus on a family of means offers a unique perspective, it also limits its scope and leads to some tonal inconsistencies. The film’s script occasionally pivots to less effective parlor game pitching, and subplots involving a new romantic partner and a ticking-clock deadline feel awkward and detract from the film’s momentum.
Despite these drawbacks, Humane is an entertaining and thought-provoking watch, especially for fans of genre films and its talented cast. Peter Gallagher delivers a superb performance as the patriarch, while Enrico Colantoni brings dry humor and menace to his role. Jay Baruchel and Emily Hampshire also shine in their respective roles.
While Humane may not fully live up to its potential, it remains a solid and engaging film that offers a unique and unsettling vision of a dystopian future.
