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Glowering looks and ominous pronouncements feature heavily, as these characters get caught up in something older than humanity itself. Because many details are between the lines, each actor relishes the ambiguity, skilfully offering hints without many explanations. As usual, Fouere's thunderous presence commands the entire film, even if she's only briefly on-screen. Both Collins and Siggins offer a terrific mix of fiery strength and open-handed vulnerability. O'Neill is also superb as the, ahem, wounded son whose curiosity about his identity spurs him on.

Even with its malevolent tone, the film remains evocative and often achingly sad, due to the characters' internal yearnings. Rita refers to her song as an evil spirit, sung in a prehistoric language that's almost hypnotic. So it seems almost logical that it unleashes this disturbing chain of events. Duane has created a timeless movie that instantly feels like a cult classic, peppering the story with wonderful details while keeping the narrative slightly out of reach. Most intriguing is the idea that songs can contain and release huge emotions.

themes, language, violence

9.Apr.24

All of this is staged with intricate choreography, augmented by whizzy camerawork, a deafening soundtrack and constant digital carnage. Still, the actors manage to create some intrigue in their roles. Skarsgard deploys his puppy dog charm and muscly physicality to make the boy someone to cheer for, even if his quest seems oddly hollow. Copley adds a blast of weaselly humour, while both Janssen and Dockery bring some bonkers steeliness to the screen. And Rothe has terrific presence as well in a role that grows more intriguing as things get crazier.

Along the way, filmmaker Mohr comes up with some inventive touches, including combat with a cheesegrater and a nutty (and exceedingly gruesome) scenario in a wintry TV studio. There are also a few clever plot twists lurking in the narrative. But there's virtually no gravitas to be found in this pointless rampage of vengeance, and the endless gun and blade fights begin to get rather repetitive before the vicious three-way battle climax. Thankfully there's a hint of soul in the post-credit sting.

themes, language, violence

14.Mar.24

Performances are whispery and earnest, but delivered with earthy commitment. It helps that there are several offhanded moments along the way to allow for emotions and humour that are much more raw than the more achingly meaningful dialog. Fisher and Allyn are charismatic leads who are thoroughly engaging, even if the roles don't feel like much of a stretch. More complex are Collins and Reeves as London's parents, meeting a daughter they didn't raise themselves.

Sun dappled to within an inch of its life, it becomes tricky to remember who is wrapping whom within each massive bear hug. Everyone in this film is so dazzlingly beautiful that their individual personality points feel oddly minimised. And along with the affirming Christian message, the story is heartwarming on a variety of levels, from a pointed depiction of where true family bonds lie to a reminder to live in the present and seek love where you find it.

themes, violence

1.Apr.24