MOVIE REVIEW
Drained
-     

Genre: Horror, Romance, Thriller, Drama
Year Released: 2024, 2025
Runtime: 1h 47m
Director(s): Peter Stylianou, Sean Cronin
Writer(s): Peter Stylianou
Cast: Ruaridh Aldington, Madalina Bellariu Ion, Craig Conway, Angela Dixon, Andrew Lee Potts, Natasha Patel, Andrew Lyle-Pinnock, Diana Yekinni, Ayvianna Snow, Kenton Lloyd Morgan, Timothy Blore
Where To Watch: exclusively On Demand January 28, 2025

RAVING REVIEW: When a city’s glow feels as haunting as its shadows, you know you’re in for something memorable. DRAINED takes viewers into the rain-slicked streets of London, where romance, obsession, and danger swirl together like a chaotic storm. Co-directed by Peter Stylianou and Sean Cronin, the film reimagines familiar vampire tropes as a deeply personal exploration of love, dependency, and identity. It follows Thomas, a struggling artist drawn into Rhea’s mysterious world, whose dark secret threatens to consume him—literally and figuratively.

The London setting is more than a passive backdrop; it pulses with life and menace. Daniel Patrick Vaughan’s cinematography transforms the city into a labyrinth of contrasts, where every shadow amplifies the tension lurking in every corner. The visual design mirrors the story’s emotional core, reinforcing the balance between allure and danger. It’s not just a feast for the eyes—it’s a crucial storytelling element that shapes the film’s tone.

Ruaridh Aldington (Thomas) and Madalina Bellariu Ion (Rhea) anchor the story with compelling performances that elevate their characters beyond archetypes. Aldington captures the fragile balance between yearning and self-destruction as Thomas becomes increasingly entangled in everything to do with Rhea. Bellariu Ion, meanwhile, radiates an otherworldly charm tinged with menace. Her portrayal of Rhea is a standout element that makes this film as powerful as it is, oscillating between tenderness and predation. Growing up in Transylvania, Romania, Bellariu Ion’s connection to the role feels natural, adding authenticity to her character’s haunting mystique.

The supporting cast, with Craig Conway, Angela Dixon, Natasha Patel, and Andrew Lee Potts, deliver nuanced performances that add depth to the film’s exploration of control, surrender, and isolation. Each character’s presence feels deliberate, contributing to the narrative without overwhelming the central story.

What makes DRAINED particularly intriguing is its ambition. Stylianou uses vampirism as a metaphor for modern pressures and the insidious ways we let ourselves be drained—whether by toxic relationships, addictive behaviors, or social media. Through Thomas and Rhea’s dynamic, the film examines how far individuals will go to feel wanted, even at the expense of their well-being. This conceptual chasm sets the film apart from traditional genre fare, offering a poignant commentary on contemporary struggles.

The film’s score is equally effective, with its synth-heavy 1980s-inspired compositions amplifying the ‘stakes.’ The music doesn’t merely accompany the visuals; it complements them, weaving a soundscape that heightens the audience’s engagement. It’s a testament to how sound and visuals can create a cohesive cinematic experience.

However, the film's ambition occasionally creates challenges. Its attempts to blend broader critique with intimate character drama don’t always work perfectly. At times, the metaphorical elements feel overly pronounced, overshadowing the more personal aspects of Thomas and Rhea’s story. While the commentary is thought-provoking, a more balanced approach might have strengthened the narrative’s emotional resonance.

Even with this, DRAINED stands out in its genre and indie filmmaking. Its horror, romance, and social commentary blend challenges traditional conventions and offers a fresh perspective. The film’s willingness to take creative risks ensures it resonates with a broad audience, appealing to those who enjoy emotionally charged dramas as much as supernatural tales.

DRAINED leaves a lingering impression with its story of love and loss, connection and sacrifice, and the blurry line between devotion and destruction. Its bold exploration of complex themes and commitment to pushing boundaries make it a memorable addition to modern horror. This film will leave an indelible mark for those willing to embrace its darker currents.

Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.

You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. My social media accounts can also be found on most platforms by searching Overly Honest Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of LEVEL 33 ENTERTAINMENT]

DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive free items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl, Books, etc. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices, regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.

Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.