PopHorror Let's Get Scared
I finally got to check out the Northern gothic thriller, The Oak Room (check out our previous review – HERE). I wasn’t sure what to expect from this story, but I absolutely loved it. This film was directed by Cody Calahan (Let Her Out) and stars RJ Mitte (Breaking Bad), Peter Outerbridge (V-Wars), and Ari Millen (Orphan Black).
Synopsis for The Oak Room
During a raging snowstorm, a drifter (RJ Mitte) offers to settle a debt with a grizzled bartender by telling him a story. The night’s events quickly spiral into a dark tale of deceit, mistaken identity and shocking violence.
I’ve seen director Cody Calahan’s previous films and he does a fantastic job with thrillers but The Oak Room just might be his best so far. It was a well-crafted story layered with mystery and suspense and it took its time building the suspense by telling the story in reverse. By this, I mean that the audience basically knows the ending before they know the beginning and it was such a fun way to do things. I loved it and it kept my attention and left me wanting to know more.
The acting was phenomenal throughout The Oak Room. The characters were rich in detail and easy to feel a connection to. However, I’ve been a huge fan of RJ Mitte for a long time and really stole the show with his performance. His character is mysterious, unusual, and layered with guilt, lies, and secrets.
The film was also beautifully shot with incredible cinematography. The tone was dark and cold, creating a grim and unsettling atmosphere that fits everything perfectly. It makes you feel uncomfortable and uncertain of what is happening.
Final Thoughts
The Oak Room will be released on digital download from April 26 in the UK, from April 27 in Canada (Black Fawn Distribution), and from April 28 (also Lightbulb Film Distribution) in Australia and New Zealand. It can be pre-ordered here.
#TheOakRoom
