powerful. scary. heartbreaking. heartwarming

Rating: 9/10 (3 April 2008)

I won't include a synopsis. I will say this film was great. From a seemingly innocent start, the suspense built quite steadily, and I was often thinking "oh no, what's going to happen?" - and what did happen was quite refreshing, as it didn't tow the usual 'hollywood suspense/spook film' party line. The characterisation worked well. It was easy to become involved with the main players. Their situation/surrounding was very believable, and this was helped by the fine acting throughout, particularly Belen Rueda-'Laura', and Roger Princep-'Simon'. Special mention to Geraldine Chaplin for a fantastic (short) portrayal of a clairvoyant. That scene had me holding my breath. Although I sort of guessed what was coming towards the end, it didn't detract at all from the enjoyment. I was able to relax a little after all the tension, unlike my two companions - my girlfriend was hiding behind my shoulder, and our friend was hiding behind her hands most of the movie. Terrific.