π¬ All That We Destroy (2019): A Genetic Nightmare That Challenges the Boundaries of Humanity

Movies
Sci-Fi, Psychological Horror, Thriller
Release Date: May 3, 2019
Director: Chelsea Peters
Writer: Sean Keller & Jim Agnew
Main Cast:
Samantha Mathis as Dr. Victoria Harris
Israel Broussard as Spencer Harris
Aurora Perrineau as Ashley
Dora Madison as Marissa
Frank Whaley as Dr. Francis
Plot Summary
All That We Destroy (2019) dives deep into the ethically murky waters of genetic engineering and motherhood in a story thatβs equal parts haunting and heartbreaking. Set in a near-future society where science has outpaced morality, the film follows Dr. Victoria Harris (Samantha Mathis), a brilliant geneticist who makes the ultimate sacrifice for her son β one that threatens the very fabric of life and death.
Spencer (Israel Broussard), her son, shows increasingly violent tendencies. In an attempt to prevent him from becoming a serial killer, Victoria uses her advanced genetic technology to repeatedly clone one of his victims β Ashley (Aurora Perrineau) β in a twisted attempt at therapeutic rehabilitation. But as each cycle unfolds, the lines between guilt, obsession, and identity begin to blur.
As the clones begin to retain memories from their past lives, Ashley starts to question her existence β and the nightmare begins to unravel. What was meant to stop a monster may have only helped create one. All That We Destroy is a chilling, cerebral take on horror that asks: If you could recreate someoneβ¦ should you?
Trailer Highlights
The official trailer for All That We Destroy offers eerie and cerebral horror, showcasing:
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Stark, clinical laboratory scenes laced with emotional unease
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Haunting repetitions of Ashley’s final moments and her growing awareness
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Spencerβs quiet, unsettling demeanor shifting between vulnerable and dangerous
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A descent into madness as science spirals beyond control
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A haunting confrontation between mother and son β and science and soul
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Moments of dread wrapped in sterile beauty, echoing Black Mirror vibes
Reception
As part of the Into the Dark anthology series on Hulu, All That We Destroy stood out for its bold storytelling and psychological depth. Critics praised the filmβs unsettling narrative and emotional complexity, especially Samantha Mathis’s performance as a mother caught between love and moral consequence.
While not a traditional slasher or gorefest, the film carved out a niche with fans of slow-burn, thought-provoking horror. It was lauded for its themes of identity, ethics, and the dark side of scientific progress, drawing comparisons to Ex Machina and Splice for its smart, unsettling premise.
Final Thoughts
All That We Destroy is a unique and intelligent blend of sci-fi and psychological horror, offering a fresh, disturbing perspective on maternal love and the price of playing God. For viewers who enjoy horror that crawls under your skin and lingers long after the credits roll, this is a must-watch.