Bad Girl starts out as one thing and becomes something else. This is reminiscent, almost a homage, to the thriller flicks of the late eighties, early nineties, comparable to such films as The Hand the Rocks the Cradle, The Stepfather and most notably Fatal Attraction. While nowhere in that league, this film is quite serviceable by its conclusion.
The standout elements are not the story, writing or direction, but the performances of the two leads, the girls. The father, however, is just awful. He's not directed very well either, which doesn't help.
The other element that is noticeable throughout is the soundtrack. It wasn't until the credits that I saw the name of Warren Ellis. A brilliant musician and composer. The music is probably the highlight of the film. Subtle most of the time. The cinematography is quite solid also.
Sadly the writing and directing let it down. The first half hour is slow, predictable, cheesy, unrealistic and annoying. It's a shame because you've already lost any sympathy for any of the characters by the time the story shifts into gear. They needed to have more depth, more rounded characterization for the audience to be drawn into their story.
As it stands, it becomes something of a stock standard thriller, though quite well done. A missed opportunity and more of a showcase for the talents of its young leads. Mr Ellis has already proven himself many times over.
Worth your time, sure, but go in with low expectations, persevere and you may just enjoy it for what it is.
