A Fera

As you may know, I often discover films when I dip into the filmography of an actor that is new to me. In this case, it is that of the talented Irish actor, Jessie Buckley (and I will definitely be following her career). The writing of this film is subtle although the topic is brutal. I was often surprised where the writers took us, which involved a few false trail and pseudo-endings before the credits rolled. The casting was superb as was their performance. The tone of abandonment was chilling. The pacing is deliberate and pensive. It is totally worth finding this film. I give it a 7 (very good) out of 10. {Thrilling Crime Mystery}

I had wanted to see this for ages. I finally caught it on E4. The adverts sucked, but the film was even better than I anticipated. I knew it would be good, but figured I'd be let down. Not so. I'm looking forward to watching it again (without the ads).

//Revelation Film Festival Review//

A psychological drama that steadily ratchets up tension, Beast is best entered into blind. For those who need a little more persuasion, the story follows a young woman, a mysterious man and a series of unexplained killings in a small seaside town. As both their past mistakes come back to haunt them, is all as it seems?

As Michael Pearce's debut feature, Beast is an assured first effort. Just when you think you know where it's heading it makes you question your assumptions and you'll be second guessing until the very end. A pleasant surprise that's definitely worth checking out.

Superb acting was necessary for this subtle, gripping and intriguing drama, and it was there. Two leads were superb and you really didn't know who was the murderer, but even more importantly, the way it delved into the psychology of those that have regrets for past bad actions and feelings of lack of support and confinement is excellent.

I don't believe what is being done here has ever been done in a film before, at least not as well, in empathising with characters and behaviours we don't really understand.

Don't worry, this is not a gruesome or horrific or jumpy film. It simply keeps you wondering about the main lead relationship, and especially the female's conflicted feelings between love and trusting whether her charismatic boyfriend is a killer or not; at the same time dealing with her own inner demons and trying to get a taste of freedom and excitement denied to her by her oppressive family.

Excellent writing, excellent story, some subtle but beautiful metaphor (plucking out the single ugly hair on her chin). Nice scenary of Jersey and though a form of 'murder mystery' the depth and character development/understanding gives a far far different feeling than Bergerac.

I recommend this film to adults (children won't understand depth of self questioning characters go through) and those that like an intriguing and realistic and slightly disturbing story. I hope it was a contender for film of the year.

Don't read about it - just watch it - you are wondering who is the real beast from beginning until the end. Beautiful location, the unrealistic supporting cast actually adds to the intrigue. This thing could have had many endings, the one used is fitting.