Product: The Descent (Original Unrated Cut) [Blu-ray] (2006)
Rating: 3.0
Above average horror yarn
This British made horror film shot in Scotland is a welcome respite from the usual juvenile and embarrassingly low standard horror crud that has persistently emanated from Hollywood over the past decade and more.Although the film has its faults, at least a few fresh ideas have been injected into the genre. For a start there is an all women cast involved, and not the usual young, weak and vulnerable, screaming stereotypes, desperately seeking protection by their boyfriends from the hostilities they face. These young women are tough, self-reliant individuals, well beyond adolescence, who enjoy physical outdoor pursuits, in this case caving. There is plenty of tension created throughout the film to keep the viewer fully occupied, as an adventure that unfolds in a subterranean environment goes horribly wrong. The audience can feel the sense of dread and despondency that the girls are experiencing, once they become trapped underground. As if unable to find your way out isn't scary enough, there is the additional small problem of coping with deadly, aggressive creature that dwell within these caves, lurking in the darkness waiting to pounce on you. A nightmare scenario indeed.The relationship between two of the central characters, Juno and Sarah has an important bearing within the film. I was never too sure whether Juno considered Sarah as a close friend, or looked upon her with contempt. Being the team leader it becomes clear Juno deliberately misleads the group placing them into immediate danger from the start. It suggests to me that Juno is something of a psychopath, although this is not apparent to begin with.Like nearly all horror films, The Descent relies on certain well worn clichés, not least the `boo factor' which is certainly overused in the film even before the group ever reach the caves, and is rather unnecessary. There are also the usual acts of stupidity, particularly by Holly, who for no special reason suddenly breaks ahead of the group in a rush only to stumble over a precipice in the dark cave, falling and smashing her knee in the process. As she was supposed to be the experienced pot-holer in the group, her act seemed absurd. The idea of including monsters in the cave is a dubious one. Being thwarted by not finding your way out of the cave with an injured party is a horrifying ordeal in itself. However they add to the terror and give the excuse for plenty of gore and `boo jobs' as necks are ripped open by these extreme aggressors. The creature effects are well done if rather hobbit-like in appearance.The unpredictable ending of the film is a clever idea as well as an enigma, but it is a refreshing change from the 'safe and happily ever after' scenario used in so many Hollywood films. It forces the viewer to pause for a moment, but eventually leaves little doubt as to what actually happened regarding Sarah's fate.As far as contemporary horror films go, The Descent ranks well above average, especially considering it was made on a small budget. The acting performances are surprisingly good for a horror film, and it is a definite viewing for fans of the genre.