Beneath Calm Waters, Something Sinister Waits

Read Time:4 Minute, 34 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Godsend (Blu-ray)
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Genre: Horror
Year Released: 1980, Kino Cult 2025
Runtime: 1h 33m
Director(s): Gabrielle Beaumont
Writer(s): Olaf Pooley, Bernard Taylor
Cast: Malcolm Stoddard, Cyd Hayman, Angela Pleasence, Patrick Barr
Where To Watch: available now, order here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Few themes in horror strike a nerve, quite like the innocence of a child turned sinister, and THE GODSEND aimed squarely at that unsettling bullseye. Helmed by Gabrielle Beaumont, who brought her extensive experience from the world of television, this psychological thriller tries something familiar yet twists it just enough to hold your attention. It delivers plenty of tension, atmospherics, and chilling moments, even if some storytelling issues stop it from being an all-around standout.

Right from the start, something seems off-kilter. The story begins deceptively calm, nestled in the picturesque English countryside, where the Marlowes—a typical family living their best lives—encounter a mysterious woman. Angela Pleasence gives a genuinely eerie performance as this enigmatic stranger whose brief appearance shakes things up dramatically. Her vacant gaze and peculiar mannerisms leave an impression far exceeding her limited screen time. When she suddenly vanishes, leaving behind a newborn named Bonnie, the film shifts gears, turning Marlowe’s serene life into something nightmarish.

One of the movie's brightest spots is how cleverly Beaumont manages suspense. She juxtaposes tranquil landscapes with a constant feeling that something terrible is about to happen. Under Beaumont's direction, the calm countryside becomes menacing, and tension builds, keeping audiences on edge. This technique enhances the movie’s slow-burn feel, drawing viewers into its quiet menace without relying on cheap scares or predictable horror clichés.

Interestingly, one of the movie’s best creative decisions is also where it falters a bit. Beaumont keeps violence largely off-screen, forcing audiences to piece things together. On the one hand, this method adds psychological depth to the scares, giving audiences space to imagine horrors potentially worse than anything filmmakers could show. On the other hand, there are moments when this restrained approach dampens the tension, making some shocking events feel less impactful.

Another notable issue is the emotional reactions—or lack thereof—of Alan and Kate, the parents. As tragedies unfold around them, their responses seem curiously muted. This detached approach to grief makes it difficult for the audience to empathize, creating an unintended gap between the viewer and the character. Had the filmmakers explored their psychological distress more profoundly, the overall emotional payoff would have been richer and more resonant.

Another area for improvement is the film's handling of the central metaphor—Bonnie as a “cuckoo” child. This idea, referring to how cuckoo birds infiltrate and take over other birds’ nests, is loaded with psychological and emotional potential. Unfortunately, the script treats this fascinating theme rather superficially. More attention to the emotional turmoil, paranoia, and betrayal intrinsic to this scenario could have made for richer storytelling, giving audiences deeper layers of fear and suspense to chew on.

Beaumont’s TV roots are also evident in how she structures the story. The narrative often jumps abruptly forward, skipping reactions and critical developments. These time jumps can create confusion rather than suspense, disrupting the flow and slightly disorienting viewers. Instead of heightening tension, these skips often undermine it, leaving audiences detached from the unfolding events. A more linear narrative or smoother transitions could’ve maintained the film’s tense atmosphere and enhanced overall cohesion.

One intriguing yet underutilized aspect is the mysterious return near the film’s climax. The reappearance introduces an ambiguity between reality and potential madness, a promising idea frustratingly left underdeveloped. Diving further into this character could’ve provided additional suspense and psychological intrigue, amplifying the palpable sense of unease.

THE GODSEND remains memorable for its ambitious and atmospheric approach. It thrives in its quiet, suggestive horror and refusal to give easy answers. The film's decision to leave certain mysteries unexplained enhances its vibe, which lingers with viewers long after watching. While it might not nail every moment perfectly, the film effectively explores the unnerving territory where innocence and malevolence intersect. It’s a chilling reminder that true horror often comes from not knowing exactly what you’re dealing with.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER, KINO CULT]

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