This film is incredibly tough to watch but worth the effort as it grapples with the most sickening act imaginable, the abuse of a child. In this case it's a young teenage girl who is molested by her fathers friend. The film essentially begins with a single shot of the manipulation and abuse of this young girl by the family friend which feels like it goes on forever. Several people walked out on the screening i was in during this scene and to be honest i was nearly one of them, however i am glad that i stayed.
The movie then takes on a very minimalist feel and we journey through both their lives and in particular the moments that seem to remind them of the initial act of violence. A few of the supporting performances are weak and you can 'see them acting' however the leads are very convincing and combined with the long take style of the film you feel like you are watching something real which is why i think it is at times hard to watch.
The final act has to be seen to be believed as all of a sudden a lot of subtle moments from earlier in the film are paid off and the director, Aaron Catling, seems to expand his palette to great effect. After over 100 minutes of wanting to reach into the screen and scream the ending is very fulfilling and to be honest you could've heard a pin drop in the test screening i was at.
Although not perfect in its execution, mainly because of a couple of performances, this is one of the most moving and unique low budget films i have ever seen. Rather than taking easy options it is in your face and unrelenting. It will not be for everyone, but if you make it to the spinning shot you will know this is something special.
The movie then takes on a very minimalist feel and we journey through both their lives and in particular the moments that seem to remind them of the initial act of violence. A few of the supporting performances are weak and you can 'see them acting' however the leads are very convincing and combined with the long take style of the film you feel like you are watching something real which is why i think it is at times hard to watch.
The final act has to be seen to be believed as all of a sudden a lot of subtle moments from earlier in the film are paid off and the director, Aaron Catling, seems to expand his palette to great effect. After over 100 minutes of wanting to reach into the screen and scream the ending is very fulfilling and to be honest you could've heard a pin drop in the test screening i was at.
Although not perfect in its execution, mainly because of a couple of performances, this is one of the most moving and unique low budget films i have ever seen. Rather than taking easy options it is in your face and unrelenting. It will not be for everyone, but if you make it to the spinning shot you will know this is something special.
