Tension Builds in Slow-Burn Found Footage Film

Read Time:4 Minute, 17 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Borderlands (Final Prayer) Limited Edition Blu-ray
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Genre: Horror, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Year Released: 2013, 2024 Second Sight Films Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 29m
Director(s): Elliot Goldner
Writer(s): Elliot Goldner
Cast: Robin Hill, Gordon Kennedy, Aidan McArdle
Where To Watch: available now here www.secondsightfilms.co.uk

RAVING REVIEW: From the outset, THE BORDERLANDS captures the imagination with its ghostly appeal set in the scenic yet eerie British countryside. As the film unfolds, viewers are drawn into a gripping narrative steeped in mystery and supernatural elements, centered around a chapel where unusual phenomena disrupt a simple baptism. This blend of historical and haunting sets the stage for a film that horror buffs and casual viewers can sink their teeth into.

In his directorial debut, Elliot Goldner chooses the found footage format for THE BORDERLANDS but steers clear of the genre's typical reliance on cheap thrills. Instead, he builds tension methodically, laying a foundation of suspense that crescendos into a satisfying and shocking climax. The film's real strength lies in its atmospheric pressure cooker, which simmers with an increasing sense of dread, enhanced by the desolate backdrop of the unwelcoming English church.

The narrative is driven by a trio of characters—Deacon, Gray, and Mark—brought to life by the capable hands of Gordon Kennedy, Robin Hill, and Aidan McArdle. Each actor infuses their role with a definitive flair, influenced by their characters' backgrounds and personal demons, which add to the vibe during their investigation of the spooky happenings at the church. The interplay between the diverse approaches—Gray's tech-savvy enthusiasm vs. Deacon's hardened skepticism—adds a compelling dynamic to the storyline.

THE BORDERLANDS does occasionally wander into some familiar territory. Its slow pace won’t be for everyone, especially those accustomed to more immediate gratification in horror cinema. Moreover, while the film innovates within its format, it sometimes echoes the hallmarks of earlier found footage films, which detracts from its novelty for found footage genre enthusiasts.

Yet, these flaws throughout the film leave the overall impact with minor damage. One of THE BORDERLANDS' most notable achievements is its rich and detailed character development—rare qualities in horror. The actors deliver nuanced performances that make their characters' fates impact the audience, establishing a connection that transcends the screen.

Technologically, the film contrasts modern investigative methods with the timeless, mystical setting of the chapel. This juxtaposition enriches the visuals and textures of THE BORDERLANDS and provides a commentary on the intersection of old-world superstitions and contemporary digital methods of “ghost hunting.”

The film focuses on building a haunting, immersive world anchored by solid performances and a solid script. The meticulous attention to the eerie atmosphere and the slow unveiling of the church's secrets through modern tech tools give THE BORDERLANDS a distinctive edge.

While THE BORDERLANDS may tread some familiar ground at times, it does so with a fresh angle. The film blends atmospheric tension with a captivating mix of technology and old-world lore, making it a solid addition to the horror genre and another remarkable release from Second Sight. It is a thoughtful, slowly unraveling mystery that culminates in a climactic payoff, rewarding those who appreciate a more cerebral approach to horror. Whether you're a die-hard horror enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, THE BORDERLANDS promises a uniquely unsettling experience that is well worth the watch.

Special Features
New audio commentary by Actors Robin Hill and Gordon Kennedy, Producer Jennifer Handorf, and Special Effects Artist Dan Martin
Dressed the Part: a new interview with Robin Hill and Gordon Kennedy
Losing Faith: A New Interview with Jennifer Handorf
Monster Goo: a new interview with Dan Martin
Archive featurette: Behind the Scenes

Limited Edition Contents
Rigid slipcase with new artwork by Christopher Shy
70-page book with new essays by Tim Coleman, Martyn Conterio, Shellie McMurdo, and Johnny Walker
Six collectors' art cards

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[photo courtesy of SECOND SIGHT FILMS]

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