By: Mariah Thomas
If you’ve ever wondered what true obsession looks like, Act One is the movie for you. Oftentimes words with deep impact and definitions get watered down over time. The concept of obsession can be looked at as a fun passion that is maybe a tad too intense. This movie serves as a reminder of the emotional and even physical harm that can come with it.
Act One follows teen Hannah (Ella Beatty) who has a family that doesn’t take her love of acting too seriously. It is viewed as a fun hobby when, for her, it is a true passion. She crosses paths with intense acting coach Melanie (Ari Graynor) who is delighted to take her under her wing. Hannah joins Melanie’s acting class filled with people much older than her. This causes her mom, Julie (Elizabeth Reaser), to grow concerned but Hannah assures her that it’s just acting. Melanie’s methods of teaching border the lines of manipulation, harassment and even grooming. Hannah’s insecurities make her the perfect fit to fall into her spell. Hannah begins to rapidly change as she also develops a closer relationship with fellow acting class friend Henry (Nate Mann). As she continues down this dark and windy path the audience often questions if she can be saved in time or if she is too far consumed with her obsessions.
There is a high level of intensity set early on in this film that stays consistent until its final moments. Every scene felt pivotal to the story and not a second felt wasted. I was particularly mesmerized with Ari Graynor’s portrayal of Melanie. She was able to also in a way manipulate the audience along with Hannah to view Melanie in different lights at specific times. Though she is the clear “villain” here, there are moments of understanding and times we see the narrative flipped. Ari Graynor and Ella Beatty beautifully bring such a complex dynamic to life on screen.
This film was both written and directed by Sophia Takal. Known for her horror/thriller work, Takal brings just the right amount of that to this film. Though it is more of a drama that is a sprinkle of intense thrilling moments that leave you with chills. Both from the aspect of how certain shots play out and how they were written, Takal doesn’t shy away from the horrific truths of how far obsession can take a person.
Act One is a featured narrative film at 2026’s Tribeca Film Festival. The second the film ended I said out loud, “Well, where is Act Two?!” This is an incredible film that leaves you wanting more and of course keeps the narrative alive enough to possibly have a sequel. This is a movie that I instantly look forward to someday rewatching once it is out in the world.