Review published 7th July 2026
Watch the official trailer.
A Medical Mind Battling a Personal Struggle
Hana (Midori Francis) is a medical student who continues to excel in her knowledge and understanding of medicine. However, her biggest personal challenge revolves around her struggles with weight loss. No matter how much effort Hana puts in, the results are either minimal or non-existent, and it does not help that she continues to fall back into unhealthy eating habits. It is an ongoing battle that has become a constant source of frustration and a major challenge in her life.
When the Perfect Solution Becomes a Nightmare
While out with her friends, Hana bumps into a familiar face; her old friend Melissa (Annie Shapero). At first, Hana barely recognises Melissa due to her significant weight loss. Her curiosity getting the better of her, Hana discovers Melissa’s big secret to her weight loss: an expensive pill called Gray. The pill allows Melissa to lose weight while still being able to eat whatever she wants. Out of generosity, Melissa gives Hana a sample to try so she can experience the results firsthand. After all, Hana was always kind to Melissa in the past. Hana decides to try the pills for herself, and the results are both evident and surprising. However, as the pills are extremely expensive and Hana is currently studying medicine, there is no way she can afford to continue paying such a premium price for the pill. Instead, Hana decides that she should use her medical knowledge to investigate what is actually inside these amazing pills. What she discovers is shocking- one of the ingredients is human ash. Eventually Hana finds a way to create the pill herself, but soon begins experiencing strange side effects and haunting visions. Can Hana uncover the truth behind Gray before it is too late?
Where Science Fiction Meets Uncomfortable Horror
Saccharine is a blend of science fiction, drama, and, most notably, body horror. In fact, the body horror is so intense that the film opens with a content warning, as it explores themes relating to eating disorders, body dysmorphia, and negative body image, which may be distressing for some viewers. The film is written and directed by Natalie Erika James, whose previous directing credits include Apartment 7A, Relic, and more.
A Nightmare Brought to Life Through Visuals and Sound
As for the positives, Saccharine knows exactly how to make its audience feel uncomfortable and, at times, even squeamish. This is thanks to its strong visuals, incredible sound design, and effective cinematography, particularly the close-up shots of horror elements or Hana eating something unhealthy. Midori Francis also delivers a strong and enjoyable performance. Even when Hana makes questionable choices, she remains a likeable character, and you cannot help but support her in the hope that she finds a cure for the nightmare she has found herself in. The film’s opening is very effective, introducing its mysteries and setting events in motion quickly, giving viewers plenty to become invested in from the very beginning.
A Slow Burn That Struggles to Reach Its Potential
However, while I have so much praise for this film, there is one major drawback that just didn’t work for me personally. I was excited to see Hana’s journey play out, and I was eager to see the reveals and twists, but sadly the pace is very drawn out and slow, so much so that it felt far longer than the runtime actually is. Without spoilers, the film’s climax is fine, but certain creative choices feel like a mixture of either clichés or familiar ideas.
A Visually Stunning Nightmare With Plenty to Praise
Overall, horror fans are in for a massive treat with the Australian horror film Saccharine. It’s packed with disturbing and deeply uncomfortable moments, and some viewers may even be grossed out, but in the best possible way. Midori Francis delivers a likeable and compelling lead performance, the cinematography is visually striking, the sound design is excellent, and the film opens with a compelling mystery that immediately draws you in. There’s also a wonderfully bizarre atmosphere that keeps you intrigued throughout. That said, while I have plenty to praise, I found the pacing to be extremely drawn out. Even when the bigger reveals and twists arrive, the journey takes a few too many detours to get there. The finale is satisfying enough, but it also feels familiar and a little clichéd. If you enjoyed films such as Grafted or, more obviously, The Substance, then Saccharine is well worth checking out.
Saccharine (2026) will be Available in Australian Cinemas from July 9th thanks to Maslow Entertainment!
About the Reviewer
Peter Walkden
Film writer and curator with a deep passion for cinema, genre filmmaking, and physical media. Exploring new releases, cult favourites, and overlooked films, with a strong focus on atmosphere, storytelling, and the theatrical experience.
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