The downward spiral

Rating: 9/10 (26 June 2006)

This excellent film is probably not what you think it is...
First off, I'm not sure that tagging it as a traditional "horror" does the film justice. I hope that film-goers who are not horror fans will get the chance to see this. It's more of a tense, atmospheric setting for a character exploration piece. It's essentially a deconstruction of the "chick flick".
A group of female friends who haven't spent time together in years get together to go on a caving expedition. This will give them a chance to bond, and, for Sarah, a chance to get over the death of her husband and daughter in a car crash. Her friends are there to support her in her time of need. Initially things go well, but the cracks in the civil veneer are just below the surface. Once underground, some bad decisions by the impetuous Juno lead the women astray, and things go from bad to worse. And when the chips are down, the women get to see who among their number they can really count on.
Those who would not normally like horror are probably asking "yes, but is there blood?" To which the answer is "oh yes. By the gallon." But don't let that put you off. The focus stays squarely on our heroines, and their descent into chaos. It's just that something is down there waiting for them...
The cinematography and sound design are outstanding. During one particular scene, I could see the audience squirming! The performances range from OK to very good. The ending (actual, non-US ending) is unexpected, and for some in the audience I was part of, perhaps a little too unexpected. But I think it's more symbolic than anything of where Sarah ends up. Writer/director Neil Marshall certainly doesn't take the easy road, and the film is better for it.