Broken Beak - Raindance

Courtesy of Raindance

Folktales are prime subjects for horror films across the globe. Every country has stories from the past that could be used to paint an image of the present. Myths and monsters are perfect to scare and set an uneasy atmosphere, even more so if these creatures take hold of someone in reality. Broken Beak easily sets the stage for something bizarre and deeply disturbing. Though the cinematography in most places is visually compelling, and the central performance from Briar Rose is commendable, Broken Beak isn’t quite the folktale inspired horror film you expect it to be.

Full review over at Filmhounds

The Quiet Maid - Raindance Film Festival

 

There has been many a story portrayed in film involving the classes and the issues that come with the divide, the characters end up being the defining factor to make each story stand out. Having had its UK premiere at Raindance 2024, The Quiet Maid was nominated for Best Debut Director and Best Debut Feature.  The film boasts an enticing lead, Paula Grimaldo who is captivating even when completing menial tasks. She went on to win Best Performance at Raindance. The Quiet Maid is not a thriller, nor is it a straightforward drama. An observational character study would be more accurate as with Ana herself, there is more beneath the surface than what we are presented with.

Working for an upper-class family on the north-eastern coast of Spain, quiet Colombian domestic maid Ana, balances her duties with finding ways to also enjoy the Summer.

Full review over at Filmhounds.