My Take:
Imagine a foggy English countryside and an old manor where time stands still. Isabelle, a young art conservator, arrives to examine a mysterious artifact. However, she quickly finds herself caught in a web of strange relationships with the inhabitants—the eccentric owner and his daughter, Scarlet. This film builds tension not through jump scares, but through a thick, almost dreamlike atmosphere and a growing erotic tension between the female leads.
What's Captivating: The aesthetics. If you love folk horror and classic vampire tales that focus on mood rather than special effects, this is for you. The relationship between Isabelle and Scarlet is subtle, filled with ambiguity and queer subtext that perfectly fits the stifling atmosphere of the old castle.
A Word of Caution: It’s a slow-burn film. The plot unfolds very gradually, which might be frustrating for fans of modern, fast-paced slashers. It’s more of a dark, Gothic fairy tale than a bloody spectacle.
Verdict: 6.5/10 🏰🩸
A stylish return to the roots of Gothic horror. Perfect for a rainy evening when you're looking for mystery and a subtle queer undertone.
🔍 Did you know...?
The film was shot in authentic, historical locations across the UK, including estates that have long been rumored to be haunted. The filmmakers intentionally drew inspiration from "Vampyros Lesbos" and other 1970s European erotic horrors, trying to capture their specific, oneiric vibe. Actress Katie Goldfinch (Isabelle) admitted that working in such old, cold interiors helped her tap into her character's sense of anxiety and entrapment.
