In a year brimming with chilling cinematic offerings, the body horror film *Together* has carved out a unique place in the genre, earning a staggering 98% on Rotten Tomatoes and outshining other 2025 heavyweights like *Sinners* (97%) and *28 Years Later* (88%). Directed by first-time filmmaker Michael Shanks, this audacious debut has captivated critics with its blend of visceral horror, sharp wit, and profound emotional depth, cementing its status as one of the year's best films.
*Together*, starring real-life couple Dave Franco and Alison Brie, tells the story of a couple whose relationship takes a nightmarish turn when a supernatural force begins to physically intertwine their bodies in grotesque and irreversible ways. Premiering at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, the film sparked immediate buzz, with Neon acquiring its distribution rights for a reported $17 million. Its theatrical release on July 30, 2025, in the United States and July 31 in Australia has only amplified its acclaim.
Critics have hailed *Together* as a groundbreaking entry in the body horror genre, with some calling it "the most romantic horror movie ever made" while simultaneously warning that it’s "the worst possible date night film." The film’s ability to balance squishy, stomach-churning visuals with a heartfelt exploration of co-dependency has drawn comparisons to the works of David Cronenberg and Brian Yuzna, yet Shanks’ vision feels distinctly fresh. Reviews praise the film’s effects and its ability to provoke both laughter and gasps, with one critic noting, “It’s a twisted, f–ked-up romance about taking the plunge and seeing what works out best in the end.”
The chemistry between Franco and Brie, who play a couple grappling with a failed marriage proposal and a move to the countryside, adds an extra layer of authenticity. Their performances have been described as “jaw-dropping” and “exceptional,” with critics highlighting the physical and emotional demands of their roles. Franco revealed the toll of the production, stating, “I had bruises over my entire body by the end.” Brie echoed this sentiment, noting the film’s unique physicality set it apart from their previous horror projects.
What sets *Together* apart is its tonal tightrope walk, seamlessly blending romantic comedy, relationship drama, and grotesque body horror. Critics have lauded Shanks’ script for its accessibility despite its fringe premise, with one review describing it as “a gruesome yet thought-provoking exploration of co-dependency bolstered by stellar performances.” The film’s ability to tackle universal themes of toxic attachment and personal identity through a lens of squishy, goopy horror has resonated deeply, making it a standout in a crowded year for the genre.
Remarkably, *Together* marks Michael Shanks’ directorial debut, a fact that has stunned critics given the film’s polish and ambition. Despite his lack of prior feature credits, Shanks has been praised for his “sharp horror instincts” and “refreshing lack of pretension.” The film’s success has sparked curiosity about the elusive filmmaker, whose vision has already drawn comparisons to horror’s greatest auteurs.
2025 has proven to be a stellar year for horror, with films like *Bring Her Back*, *The Monkey*, and *Final Destination: Bloodlines* earning critical and commercial success. Yet *Together* has risen above the pack, its 98% Rotten Tomatoes score reflecting near-universal praise from 55 critics. The film’s Metacritic score of 76 further underscores its favorable reception. However, its journey hasn’t been without controversy; a lawsuit filed in May 2025 alleged similarities between *Together* and another film, though the case remains unresolved.
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As the horror genre continues to thrive, *Together* stands as a testament to its versatility, proving that even the most grotesque premises can carry profound emotional weight. With its blend of romance, humor, and body horror, Shanks’ debut is not just a film — it’s an experience that leaves audiences both squirming and swooning. As one viewer put it, “*Together* was a hilarious and wild fun time from the body horror heavens… a truly amazing horror debut.”
For those brave enough to face its unsettling visuals and wickedly sharp commentary, *Together* is a must-see, redefining what horror can achieve in 2025.
