I have to confess that prior to receiving IN FEAR in the mail, I had not heard of the film. This should not be surprising, I suppose, as I have been overly busy the past couple of months with the weather, the move, and everything else. But I’m very thankful the fine folks at Anchor Bay sent it to me. This is one heck of a thrill ride, and every horror fan should check this one out!
If you are not familiar with IN FEAR, here is the plot synopsis courtesy of Anchor Bay Films:
Young couple Tom (Iain De Caestecker of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.) and Lucy (Alice Englert of BEAUTIFUL CREATURES) are driving to a festival in the remote Irish countryside. When they leave the main highway to look for their hotel, they quickly lose their way along the back-roads. Lost and tormented as night falls, Tom and Lucy's primal anxieties of the dark and the unknown start to take hold. When the couple discovers they are not alone, they realize that their worst fears lay in the road ahead. Allen Leech (Downton Abbey) co-stars in this shattering debut feature by writer/director Jeremy Lovering.
If you’ve been driving for a while, I’m sure you’ve found yourself in the middle of nowhere at least once. In a rural area like where I live, there are plenty of places to get turned around. As such, the feeling of being lost in a remote location can be very unsettling. This film takes that sensation to an extreme!
IN FEAR is shot very well and looks excellent onscreen. I have to tip my hat to the cinematographer, David Katznelson; he is obviously talented, and this film is a true testament to that talent. In fact, the whole production team should be commended. The film looks great and feels like a high-budget production.
Likewise, the cast does a great job as well. Iain De Caestcker and Alice Englert play off of each other like they’ve been friends for years. And supporting cast member Allen Leech is creepy and devilish, the perfect antagonist for a piece like this. All three give stellar performances and help to make this film a perfect ten.
There are plenty of thrills and chills here as well. IN FEAR doesn’t just prey on your senses…it feeds off of your fears, too. And in doing so, it takes you on a roller coaster ride of horror. You won’t be the same after watching this film, I guarantee you that.
IN FEAR is a heck of a win for me, and I recommend giving it a look. Even if you’re not a horror fan per se, it’s a slick and effective thriller that will keep you guessing. The film hits store shelves next week, so be sure and make a note to check it out!!