The idea of two sisters arguing, despite one of them being dead, should hold a lot of promise. However, the opportunity is somewhat lost in My Sister is Dead.
While getting ready for an event, unusual noises and light-flickering alert Anaaya that her deceased sister Miraal is about to make an appearance. When she does appear, she is very angry that her sister has betrayed her and an argument begins.
One element of the narrative was reminiscent of Ghost Town in its idea of the dead being haunted by the living rather than the other way around. This is an interesting concept that could have been accentuated. Had there been more focus on Miraal’s own sense of grief at having been forgotten, the emotional impact of exploring bereavement could have been heightened.
Although a fan of the conventional ghost story, I was unable to feel immersed in that story due to some distracting camera work, poor sound quality and old-fashioned music choices. As the film descends into a family drama, what should have been an emotional and heartfelt conversation between two siblings was let down by performances and dialogue. Unfortunately, over-dramatic performances and a lack of subtlety means the heart of the film isn’t the gut punch it could have been.
There is a lot of scope here for some comedic moments, but a lack of conviction means it doesn’t seem clear where this film positions itself. With a more bold and intentional approach this could have been an interesting meditation on the nature of grief and betrayal, in the context of a complex sororal relationship.
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