elizevn

There is currently so much uncertainty in the real world and it feels like there is nowhere to go to try and forget what is happening.

I usually escape into film, horror specifically, as horror offers me escape from reality into an imaginary world encompassed by the adrenaline of fear, but from a safe distance, where I remain in control. The Unfamiliar offered me this escape, an escape from a once familiar world, now gone.

Most horrors these days are a slow burn, so much focus on character development that you lose the plot completely and when the antagonist appears, instead of fearing them you feel empathy instead.

With The Unfamiliar, it took me back to the days of old school horror making. What is the evil, will I get to see the evil, does it have a name, will it find me when I am asleep in my bed?

I felt as though I was on a roller coaster from one moment to the next, waiting for something to step out from a dark corner when I least expected it. I didn't want to solve the mystery, I wanted to be scared....and I was.

This film showcased a mother who would do what it takes to save her family, in-spite of her own safety and sanity. A feeling all mothers would relate to. In saying this I felt a sort of relatability with the lead character and at the same time felt her fear and confusion. Her character was very well written and performed in engaging this feeling from it's audience.

The time and effort which has gone into researching myths and legends for the basis of this story has not gone unnoticed and if anything made me want to explore the story even more.

In a world where online content feels recycled and limited, this was a great film with a promise of great things to come from the team who delivered it.

Well done on a great film, well written, well acted and well directed.

Don't read too many reviews, go find out for yourself, you won't regret it.

7/10

A feel good intercontinental love story, encompassed by undeniable humor, indifference, understanding and some good old nostalgia.

Subtly taking on everything you would expect to see in the ingredients for a perfect love story: wholesome, healthy and fulfilling.

Leading Lady left me smiling and believing that love will always prevail, be it in a big city or on a small farm forgotten by time, held together by hope.

If you do anything this weekend - make sure it includes Leading Lady and some popcorn!

A definite 10/10