In The Voices, Anna Kendrick ventures into territory far removed from her usual roles in feel-good films and musicals. Known for her charm, wit, and effortless comedic timing, Kendrick takes a bold step into the world of dark comedy horror, embodying a character who brings a refreshing layer of humanity and warmth to an otherwise disturbing narrative. Directed by Marjane Satrapi, The Voices juxtaposes horror and humor, creating a surreal and sometimes unnerving atmosphere that explores themes of mental illness, morality, and human connection in unexpected ways. Kendrick’s role as Lisa, a bright and empathetic character, is a standout, highlighting her versatility and reaffirming her status as an actress unafraid of taking risks.

Background of The Voices: Genre and Style

The Voices follows Jerry (Ryan Reynolds), a seemingly well-meaning but troubled man who is tormented by voices—a cat and dog who act as his devil and angel on opposite shoulders. Guided by his twisted conscience, Jerry finds himself on a dark path, descending into madness as his pets’ advice becomes increasingly sinister. This dark comedy horror, with a script by Michael R. Perry, delivers both laughs and frights in equal measure, using humor to explore the darkest corners of the human psyche. Satrapi’s direction brings a quirky yet unsettling tone to the film, challenging audiences to find empathy for Jerry even as he devolves into violence.

At the heart of this twisted world lies Lisa, played by Kendrick. She’s one of Jerry’s love interests and the character who brings the most warmth and compassion into his life, serving as a contrast to his spiraling descent. Kendrick’s portrayal of Lisa brings lightness to the film’s heavy themes, subtly balancing dark humor with a quiet sincerity that offsets the chaos surrounding her.

Anna Kendrick’s Role as Lisa: The Compassionate Counterpoint

Lisa is a refreshing presence in The Voices—optimistic, gentle, and funny. As a coworker of Jerry’s at the factory where he works, she’s friendly, approachable, and immediately likeable, with a vivacity that adds color to the otherwise drab, industrial setting. Lisa’s demeanor is markedly different from Jerry’s fragmented psyche; where he’s haunted and paranoid, she’s open and authentic. Kendrick embodies Lisa’s kindness with ease, bringing her trademark charm to the character in a way that feels both natural and deeply needed within the film’s unsettling context.

Kendrick’s performance is nuanced, providing moments of levity without undermining the gravity of the plot. Lisa’s kindness and empathy become a poignant contrast to Jerry’s inner turmoil, making her moments on screen feel almost like a reprieve from the tension that builds throughout the film. When Jerry’s descent becomes increasingly apparent, Kendrick’s portrayal of Lisa underscores the tragedy of his actions, heightening the film’s emotional stakes. This contrast makes the dark elements even more impactful, and it’s Kendrick’s charisma that allows Lisa to feel like a fully realized person rather than a mere plot device.

The Intersection of Dark Comedy and Horror: Kendrick’s Balancing Act

Dark comedy and horror are difficult genres to balance, and The Voices is a film that lives on the edge of these opposing moods. The storyline is rife with disturbing scenes and moral ambiguity, and it’s Kendrick’s role that adds a much-needed balance to this atmosphere. Rather than succumbing to the bleakness of the plot, Kendrick brings a subtly humorous edge to Lisa. She plays Lisa with a warmth that tempers the horror without undercutting it, allowing viewers to experience the unsettling events through her hopeful, almost naïve lens.

In the hands of a less skilled actress, Lisa could have come across as a one-dimensional character—a mere foil to Jerry’s psychosis. But Kendrick’s ability to blend empathy with irony makes her performance feel genuine and layered. Her chemistry with Reynolds is compelling, adding complexity to the story’s emotional landscape. Kendrick doesn’t just play Lisa as the “nice girl” or the “love interest”; she makes Lisa a person with her own quirks and motivations, adding an element of unpredictability to her scenes that enhances the tension.

Kendrick’s Unique Approach to the Role

Kendrick’s approach to Lisa’s character showcases her remarkable adaptability as an actress. She brings an awareness to Lisa that contrasts with her upbeat disposition, hinting that perhaps Lisa, too, senses something amiss in Jerry but chooses to see the good in him anyway. This understated complexity gives the audience insight into Lisa’s character, allowing Kendrick to subtly imply more than what’s on the surface. By playing Lisa as both hopeful and aware, Kendrick taps into the tragic dimension of her character’s fate, making the narrative all the more impactful when events take a darker turn.

Kendrick’s decision to emphasize Lisa’s empathy aligns well with the film’s theme of flawed but hopeful connections. She breathes life into Lisa by highlighting her generosity and humor, traits that seem to keep her afloat even in a bleak and isolated world. Kendrick’s commitment to bringing Lisa’s kindness and warmth to the forefront reflects her own understanding of the importance of grounding horror in relatable emotions. In doing so, she transforms Lisa from a mere “final girl” stereotype into a character who is both memorable and deeply human.

Impact on Kendrick’s Career: A Testament to Her Versatility

Before The Voices, Kendrick was primarily known for her roles in romantic comedies, musicals, and lighthearted dramas. However, this dark comedy horror allowed her to showcase a new side of her talent. Kendrick’s performance as Lisa proves her ability to transcend genre boundaries, reaffirming that she is far more than the comedic actress many had pegged her to be. Her work in The Voices demonstrates that she can hold her own in a psychologically complex film, one that requires her to balance humor with horror without losing the emotional resonance of her character.

The Voices marks a turning point for Kendrick, showcasing her courage to explore roles that defy her established image. It’s a testament to her range that she can be equally convincing as the witty Beca in Pitch Perfect and the sincere, vulnerable Lisa in The Voices. Her choice to step into a dark comedy horror—especially one as unique and unsettling as this—is an indication of her ambition and her willingness to take creative risks. This role opened doors for Kendrick, proving that she could handle unconventional and challenging parts with ease.

Final Thoughts: Kendrick’s Enduring Impact in The Voices

The Voices is a film that refuses to fit neatly into any one category. It’s part psychological thriller, part dark comedy, and part horror, and Kendrick’s performance as Lisa is integral to its success. Her portrayal is heartfelt and endearing, grounding the narrative in a humanity that resonates amidst the film’s surreal and often disturbing events. Kendrick’s work here remains a highlight of her career, exemplifying her commitment to exploring complex, multifaceted roles.

In many ways, Kendrick’s Lisa becomes a beacon in the film—not only for Jerry but also for the audience. Her character’s empathy and kindness provide a striking contrast to the film’s grotesque elements, making her untimely fate all the more tragic. By playing Lisa with such warmth, Kendrick elevates The Voices, transforming it from a standard horror-comedy into a film that offers a thought-provoking exploration of morality, loneliness, and the need for human connection.

Through her role in The Voices, Kendrick cemented her place as a versatile actress capable of handling diverse genres. Her performance is a reminder that even in the darkest narratives, empathy and humor can shine through. With Lisa, Kendrick gave horror fans a character worth remembering, and her fearless approach to the role remains a testament to her dedication and talent.