PopHorror Let's Get Scared
Looking for a dark and grim thriller that will send shivers down your spine? Well, look no further because The Winter Lake delivers all of this. This is the feature directorial debut from director Phil Sheerin and written by David Turpin (The Lodgers). It stars Emma Mackey (Sex Education), Anson Boon (Blackbird), Charlie Murphy (Peaky Blinders TV series), Michael McElhatton (Game of Thrones TV series), and Mark McKenna.
Synopsis for The Winter Lake
When Holly’s dark secret is accidentally uncovered by her new emotionally unstable neighbor, Tom, they are pulled into a violent confrontation with her father who will do anything to keep the secret hidden.
From the very beginning of the film, the atmosphere feels claustrophobic and grim, full of a darkness that is sucking the lives out of everyone. The Winter Lake is a troubling story with interesting characters and unexpected outcomes.
Anson Boon delivers a brilliant performance throughout the film. His character, Tom, is incredibly awkward, nervous, emotionally unstable, and unsure of himself. However, when the time comes to face up to evil, he doesn’t back down. I love the relationship he had with his mother, played by Charlie Murphy. It’s a troubling relationship riddled with flaws, but you can see and feel the love she has for her son and that she would do anything for him. Their relationship grows throughout the film, and I think that’s one of the best parts. The villain is the ultimate monster and will send shivers down your spine.
Although the deep, dark secret is revealed rather early, The Winter Lake has a very slow build-up, which makes the story drag on a little too long for my liking. I think if there would have been fewer awkward moments of silence and more dialogue, it would help fill those long gaps. However, the cinematography is beautiful and blends well with the hauntingly eerie atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
This crime thriller drama, The Winter Lake, is now available On Demand and will hit DVD on March 23 from Epic Pictures.
