After the Hunt

"After the Hunt" is a psychological thriller directed by Luca Guadagnino that dives deep into the murky waters of power, secrets, and personal accountability. Set in the high-stakes world of academia, the story centers on Alma Imhoff, a respected Yale professor played by Julia Roberts, who finds herself caught between loyalty, truth, and her own past when a student accuses one of her colleagues of sexual misconduct.

The film explores the emotional and ethical fallout of such an accusation, not just for the accused and the accuser, but for those around them. Alma’s own history begins to surface, adding layers of tension and complexity to an already volatile situation. With a runtime of 139 minutes, the movie takes its time unraveling the characters and their motivations, offering a slow-burn narrative that leans heavily on atmosphere and performance.

Julia Roberts delivers a standout performance, earning widespread praise for her portrayal of Alma. Critics have called her work here “superb” and “monumental,” anchoring the film with emotional depth and nuance. She’s joined by a strong supporting cast including Ayo Edebiri as Maggie, Alma’s bright and idealistic student; Andrew Garfield as Hank, the accused colleague; Michael Stuhlbarg as Alma’s psychiatrist husband; and Chloë Sevigny as a university liaison and friend.

If you’re a fan of character-driven dramas that tackle difficult themes like institutional power dynamics and personal responsibility, "After the Hunt" might be right up your alley. It’s not a film that offers easy answers or tidy resolutions, and that’s part of its appeal for viewers who enjoy thought-provoking cinema. However, if you prefer fast-paced thrillers or clear-cut narratives, this one might feel a bit too ambiguous or slow.

The film premiered at the Venice International Film Festival and later opened the New York Film Festival, receiving mixed reviews overall. While some critics appreciated its provocative themes and craftsmanship, others found the story muddled and the screenplay lacking focus. Still, it’s a conversation starter, and Guadagnino’s direction—paired with a haunting score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross—adds a layer of polish and moodiness that fans of his previous work will recognize.

"After the Hunt" doesn’t aim to make you comfortable—and that’s exactly the point.