Director: Rose Glass
Starring: Jennifer Ehle, Morfydd Clark, Lily Frazer, Turlough Convery
I love being scared, terrified, choked up in fear whilst sitting in a cinema seat.
Well, actually I hate it, but love it at the same time.
There’s something addictive about sitting in a room of people, all waiting, quiet for the next jump, the next terror.
All of us waiting to be scared.
That’s why Horror films are a perfect cinema experience, the vast majority may be forgettable, but it’s the social aspect that makes the experience great.
No trailer had been seen for Saint Maud, just the poster. The black figure on a white background was striking.
The usual star ratings 4/5 are plastered on-top of it, with quotes from reviews made it instantly sellable.
So much of the poster was striking including the font selection.
A throwback to Horror Posters of the old. The StudioCanal film is directed by Rose Glass in her directional debut.
From Pride & Prejudice to Horror
Credit: Film4
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It stars Jennifer Ehle (Elizabeth Bennet, of the 1990’S BBC Pride & Prejudice) who is a reclusive former dancer struggling with her terminal illness.
She entrusts the help of a hospice nurse, Morfydd Clark (whom has just signed up the new Lord Of The Rings Amazon series).
The film is funded by Film 4 & the BFI and its remote seaside location becomes typical of a British horror.
The backdrop of the house, oceanfront is routinely thrown against the bright flashing lights of a large arcade amusement which is very striking on the big screen.
Feeling and a natural ambience is created both with shot choice and the music provided Adam Janota Bzowski.
Watching the plot unfold, I was never really scared, or on edge, but felt uncomfortable.
Uncomfortable throughout may scenes (that I’ll not spoil for you here), but that’s the main emotion it causes within you.
Clark is under the belief she is talking to God, feeling his presence and acting on his wishes through self-mutilation in penance and in her care work.
God’s Saviour
Credit: Film4
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She wants to save the very person whom is dying so that she will receive God herself.
The film poses the question, is this a demonic possession or something else? Something from God himself?
It’s an interesting premise, and creates a chilling atmosphere throughout, with the other theme focusing around nursing.
The loneliness, comfort and intimacy that can be built from those relationships between carer and patient.
If you are wanting something to watch, something with a horror theme this Halloween then Saint Maud is the thing you need to watch.
It’s a new British film released at the time British cinemas really need your support.
You’ll leave the cinema in hope of seeing more performances from Clark, questions to ask about the ending.
And with a certain sense of dread the next time anyone asks you about religion.
What do you make of this review of Saint Maud?
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