In an intriguing twist of cinematic storytelling, Sarah Paulson shines in *Hold Your Breath*, now streaming on Disney+ in Canada and Hulu in the U.S. This horror/thriller film is set against the backdrop of the Dust Bowl era in the 1930s, and it promises not only chills but also deep emotional resonance.

Co-starring with Paulson, Annaleigh Ashford—an esteemed Tony Award winner—described the film as a unique blend of horror infused with heartfelt moments. "Great horror films often weave humanity into their fabric," Ashford shared in an interview, stating that *Hold Your Breath* succeeded in capturing that essence. "It truly is a special piece."

The Storyline

In the film, Paulson portrays Margaret Bellum, a resilient mother raising her daughters, Rose (Amiah Miller) and Ollie (Alona Jane Robbins), alone on their farm, all while grappling with the haunting memory of her third daughter, Ada, who succumbed to scarlet fever and is buried on their land. This adds a poignant layer to the family's struggle amidst the encroaching dust storms—the very symbols of their impending doom.

Ashford plays Esther, Margaret's sister, who is also facing her share of heartache. With three sons, one of whom is gravely ill, she wrestles with the aftermath of losing her husband and the pressures of motherhood during these perilous times.

A mysterious visitor named Wallace Grady (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), who claims he has healing powers, weaves himself into the fabric of their lives, testing the family's resilience and faith.

Ashford's Praise for Paulson

When discussing her experience working alongside Paulson, Ashford didn't hold back her admiration, calling her "one of the greatest actors of our generation." She expressed how exhilarating it was to collaborate with someone who brings depth to every role. "The dynamic between our two characters is beautifully crafted, with arcs that mirror yet oppose each other," she said, acknowledging the skillful writing that enhances the film's emotional weight.

Ashford's character journey, marked by moments of despair and subsequent redemption, echoes the theme of hope. "It was quite rare to portray a character who, at a crucial point, gives up but ultimately finds a way to be redeemed. This speaks volumes about hope, especially for women of that time," she explained.

Themes of Climate Change and Mental Health

Diving deeper into the themes of the movie, Ashford highlighted the relevance of the film's commentary on climate change and mental health. "The Dust Bowl was not just a disaster; it was man-made," she stated. "Most people are unaware of this historical tragedy, yet it resonates with our current environmental challenges."

Moreover, the film touches on mental health and feelings of isolation, making it eerily pertinent to our recent experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. "Interestingly enough, it was written before COVID, but it carries those discussions forward," she noted, making connections to how isolation has become a shared experience globally.

A Real Dust Storm on Set

Adding an eerie authenticity to the production, Ashford recounted an incident on set where they experienced an actual dust storm while filming. "While creating the environment reminiscent of the Dust Bowl in Santa Fe, New Mexico, we faced a small dust storm that delayed our shoot. It felt like Mother Earth responding to our efforts—an extraordinary moment that underscored the film's themes," she recalled.

*Hold Your Breath* is more than just a supernatural tale; it serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of both our environment and mental well-being, urging viewers to reflect on human impact—past, present, and future. This nuanced horror film is sure to resonate with audiences far beyond the screen. Don't miss out on this hauntingly beautiful story!