In Her Place is a heart-wrenching drama about the complex relationships between mothers and daughters. The film follows the story of a wealthy couple, played by Tawny Fontana and Ellouise Shakespeare-Hart, who are unable to conceive a child of their own. Determined to become parents, they decide to hire a surrogate mother. Through a series of emotional twists and turns, the story explores the consequences of this decision not just on the couple but on the surrogate's life too. The surrogate, played by Yoon Da-kyung, is a teenage girl who comes from a poor, rural family with little prospects. She agrees to carry the couple's child in exchange for a sum of money that could improve her family's financial situation.
As the pregnancy progresses, the couple discovers that the surrogate's life is more complicated than they initially thought. Her mother, played by Shim Hye-jin, reveals that the girl's father is a notorious criminal who abandoned them years ago. She also makes it clear that she expects a share of the money that the couple has promised her daughter.
The couple is forced to navigate the complexities of the surrogate's family situation as well as the emotional impact of having a child that is biologically theirs but carried by another woman. As the due date approaches, tensions rise, and secrets are revealed.
The film explores themes of class, family, and motherhood. The surrogate's family represents a different way of life from the wealthy couple's, and the contrast between their lifestyles is stark. The couple's journey to parenthood is not just physical but also emotional as they confront the possibility of not being able to bond with a child that they did not carry themselves.
The performances in the film are exceptional, particularly by Ellouise Shakespeare-Hart, who brings a depth of emotion to her portrayal of the wife. There are several scenes where she confronts the complexities of her situation, and her acting is powerful and nuanced.
The cinematography is also noteworthy, particularly the way the camera captures the isolation of the surrogate in the couple's luxurious home. There are several moments where the camera lingers on the surrogate as she struggles to come to terms with her situation, and the effect is haunting and poignant.
In Her Place is a must-watch for anyone interested in complex family dramas. It explores the impact of wealth, class, and power on relationships, as well as the deep bonds between mothers and daughters. The story will stay with you long after the credits roll.
In Her Place is a 2019 romance movie with a runtime of 15 hours.
