Shadows of the Past

Read Time:3 Minute, 34 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Hidden Within
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Genre: Mystery, Thriller
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 21m
Director(s): Daniel Lasker
Writer(s): Daniel Lasker, Oscar K. Reyes
Executive Producer: Brashaad Mayweather
Cast: Daniel Lasker, Anja Taljaard, Arthur Falko, Tuks Tad Lungu, Eddie Sandifolo, Shoko Yoshimura, Roxanne Prentice, Lionel Strasky, Doug Bramsen
Where To Watch: releases on Amazon Prime, Fandango at Home, Google Play, iTunes, VŪBUITY, Video, and NDemand September 10, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: In HIDDEN WITHIN, Katheryn’s (Anja Taljaard) journey to her childhood home in Zimbabwe explores unresolved familial conflicts and hidden transgressions. The film navigates the murky waters of strained relationships and the heavy toll of secrecy, merging suspense with psychological insights. As Katheryn attempts to reconcile with her ailing father, Rylond (Lionel Strasky), she stumbles upon a chilling discovery that propels the narrative from a poignant family drama into the realm of an intense psychological thriller.

Her run-in with Cullen (Daniel Lasker) changes everything she thinks she knows, and Katheryn is thrown into a whirlpool of ethical dilemmas. This shocking revelation forces her to reevaluate her understanding of morality as she attempts to unearth the layers of her father’s mysterious past. Director Daniel Lasker uses the family homestead not just as a backdrop but as an active participant in the story; its dimly lit hallways and oppressive silence amplify the psychological tension, effectively mirroring Katheryn’s increasing entrapment and emotional turmoil.

Strasky’s portrayal of Rylond breaks away from typical “villain” archetypes, presenting him as a deeply flawed character whose morally dubious decisions stem from recognizably human, though profoundly flawed, motivations. This nuanced depiction invites a spectrum of emotional responses from the audience, ranging from disdain to empathy, thereby enriching the film’s exploration of moral grey areas.

HIDDEN WITHIN isn’t without its challenges. The film’s pacing is perhaps its most significant hurdle, diluting the suspense with scenes that linger a little too long, particularly those that delve into Katheryn’s psychological conflicts. These moments, meant to add depth, occasionally slow the narrative momentum significantly. Moreover, Rylond’s motivations for his drastic actions are only lightly touched upon, leaving a gap in the storyline that yearns for a more robust backstory to flesh out the psychological drama fully.

The cast delivers solid performances that solidify the film’s emotional core. Taljaard’s portrayal of Katheryn evolves from a daughter seeking closure to a woman trapped by the horrific secrets of her father’s legacy. Despite limited dialogue, Lasker’s portrayal of Cullen is impactful; his subtle physical expressions convey a depth of emotion that adds a haunting layer to the film’s tense atmosphere.

The technical elements of the film—cinematography and score—work in concert to heighten the unsettling ambiance of the narrative. Strategic uses of lighting an environment that feels both isolating and foreboding, while the score, never overpowering, subtly underscores the unfolding drama. This proves that indie films can create an atmosphere on par with some of the best, thanks to passion and dedication.

HIDDEN WITHIN offers a gripping look at the complexities of family bonds and secrets’ destructive power. It is a thought-provoking psychological thriller that balances intrigue with profound moral questions. It appeals to those who favor a slow-burning narrative that challenges the boundaries between duty and ethical obligation.

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[photo courtesy of CROSSLINE PICTURES]

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