Talk to Me

A close circle of friends turn a macabre curiosity into a dare game when they learn that an embalmed hand can act as a conduit to the dead. At first the ritual is a rush, a secret thrill that cements their bond and tests boundaries. As nights of experimenting grow wilder, one participant pushes farther than the rest, and the group has to deal with escalating, violent consequences that they did not expect. The film keeps its scares tight and immediate, focusing on how peer pressure and grief warp choices, while refusing to resolve the threat until it has squeezed every ounce of tension from each scene.

Released in 2023, Talk to Me was directed by Michael Philippou, based on an original concept from Danny Philippou, Bill Hinzman, and Daley Pearson. The cast is led by Sophie Wilde, with Alexandra Jensen, Joe Bird, Otis Dhanji, and Miranda Otto rounding out the principal roles.

The film built strong box office momentum through word of mouth and social buzz, drawing audiences looking for a fresh, visceral horror hit. It expanded beyond its opening weekend as horror fans and curious viewers spread recommendations online.

Talk to Me quickly generated a pop culture footprint, its embalmed hand prop and a few intense sequences becoming common references on social media. Fan videos, reaction clips, and memes circulated widely, and the movie sparked discussions about what scares viewers in the age of short-form video, as well as a wave of homages from up-and-coming genre creators.

Critical reaction landed mostly positive, reflected in a vote average of 7.139/10 from over 3,500 users. Reviewers singled out the film's eerie atmosphere, practical effects, and strong lead performances. Themes of grief, thrill-seeking, and the corrosive effects of one-upmanship came through clearly, giving the scares emotional stakes rather than cheap jolts.