I just recently watched, The Bloodhound, a hauntingly atmospheric tale that sent shivers down my spine. It’s from first-time feature director Patrick Picard, starring Liam Aiken (A Series of Unfortunate Events), Joe Adler (The Maze Runner), and Annalise Basso (Ouija: Origin of Evil).
Synopsis for The Bloodhound
Francis (Aiken), a dispossessed young man, is summoned to the secluded home of his wealthy childhood friend, JP Luret (Adler), who is suffering from a mysterious affliction. Upon his arrival, Francis realizes that JP and his ethereal twin sister Vivian (Basso) are the sole surviving members of the privileged Luret family, whose legacy has been one of depression and self-destruction, and the only occupants of their family estate. As the old friends attempt to reconnect, a number of inexplicable incidents begin to occur within the house, and Francis finds himself drawn into a world of malaise and despair, where an act of betrayal might provide his only way out.
The Bloodhound was a unique and disturbing film. From the get-go, my first impression of JP was that he must be a serial killer of some sort. He just seemed completely disconnected from reality and incredibly socially awkward. But then I also felt bad for him. You could tell he was incredibly lonely, the type of loneliness that eats away at you and makes you feel dreadfully empty. Francis was a trooper. He was just trying to be a supportive friend, but he ignored all the red flags and should have bolted after the first few.
Both Liam Aiken and Joe Adler delivered incredible, emotionally powered performances. They had a special, unique, and familiar chemistry yet not one you see on screen very often. Adler’s performance in particular was heartwrenching and disturbing all at the same time. You could tell he was suffering, but you weren’t sure if you should hug him or run far away.
There are several trippy moments that feel like a haunting dream sequence and in doing so it created a nightmarish atmosphere that feels lonely and claustrophobic. I definitely didn’t see that ending coming. It was uncomfortable and left no remove for closure.
Patrick Picard delivered a fantastically thrilling and disturbing story that will haunt you and make you think about life and how delicate it is. The Bloodhound is available through Arrow Video. Be sure to subscribe and check it out and let us know what you think!