The Girl with the Fork

The film really nails the suspense, with a plot that slowly unravels each character's secrets. But it can drag a bit and gets a little too convoluted in spots. Even so, it's a solid pick for anyone into indie feeling suspenseful dramas. The soundtrack is a highlight that totally amp up the tension and match the film's quirky feel.

There's a couple really lynchesque on steroids tracks in there. The cast does a great job, bringing the characters to life as the plot takes its twists and turns. Pacing can be challenging, especially the camera work that often chooses to stay put and linger for ages on a framing, but overall, I think it's a really solid effort.

For anyone already familiar with Ignacio Maiso's work, you'll know not to expect a storyline that gifts you answers, nor one that has you celebrating for having guessed the ending after 12 minutes... Instead, you'll likely be challenged to piece some of his stories together yourself, and The Girl with the Fork is no different.

It is a clearer narrative than some of his earlier movies (Them, The Consultant), cleverly jumping between timelines, but it will still leave you guessing until the very end.

If you're looking for a high octane, big budget Friday night movie epic then this won't be the right choice for you, but for those of you keen to engage with a more thought-provoking slow-burn, this is certainly one of the better options out there.

With strong lead performances by Rebecca Calienda and Paul Dewdney, and a perfectly composed score by Fernando Gimeno, this beautifully shot thriller is a fine example of UK independent film making and what can be achieved with low-to-no budget.

An intriguing, convoluted, deep, emotional and mysterious story. Really nice individual and sensitive performances particularly from Rebecca Calienda, Dylan Baldwin and Paul Dewdney, delightful lighting and cinematography by Matthew Hicks, and superb script writing and direction from Ignasio Maiso. If you don't want your thriller/drama stories spoon-fed then this is definitely one for you, it'll have you thinking for days afterwards! All in all, an excellent film, very stylish and thought provoking; I first watched it on the film festival circuit, I'm delighted that I discovered this low-budget movie gem.

This is a wonderfully intriguing, thought provoking suspense from Ignacio Maiso that has all the brilliant hallmarks that define his directorial and writing talents. I've worked with him before starring in Prowler. His intentional use of light, shadow, stillness, metaphor and music along with rhythm and texture create the intensity in this feature that perfectly rides on the waves of his unmistakablely creative storyline. It breathes carrying the viewer to unknown outcomes until they are discovered. Then it comes together like act 4 of a dramatic opera. Much applause for this strong cast too. Well done!

Compelling throughout and I'm still sitting here mulling over it all.

Thrilling and suspenseful throughout with brilliant shots, sublimely lit, and the sound and score by Fernando Gemeno was perfect.

Lovely profile shot of Dylan Baldwin was reminiscent of Alfred Hitchcock's entrance to The Funeral March of the Marionnettes from his television series.

Brilliant and imaginative 'off the wall' writing from Ignacio Maiso and yet again, Rebecca Calienda captivates with her truly great acting.

Can't wait for the next picture from Tractorni Productions.

Certainly worthy of another screening - gonna do that now.

Andrew Norman.