28 May 2013

Secret ★★★★★



Review of 'Secret' which can be found here on YouTube

Length: 09:49
Written by Oliver Morgan. Directed by Rob Birks.
Genre: Drama
Date: 2009
Rating: ★★★★★

Logline: A young schoolboy suffers in silence at the hands of an abusive teacher. 

A problem shared isn't necessarily a problem halved when it comes to this depressing story. Refreshingly, there's no happy ending here, although that does make it a bit harder to see the moral, which in this case, seems to imply that even if you talk to someone about being abused, they'll probably just tell you to put up with it until the fella gets bored. 

Reece Webster and Kieran Hocking are both excellent young actors and superbly cast. Webster is particularly adept at providing us with a naturalistically  oppressed performance. Each handles the well written dialogue giving careful attention to the subject matter. The handheld camerawork helps give a more intimate feel when watching and good shot composition and editing is key in highlighting the emotional story beats. A simple and economical soundtrack is also used to great effect. 

There's an immediate hook as the storyline almost immediately delves into a somewhat shocking scene which is handled very well. There's some nice symbolic imagery in amongst it all and the soft focus provides a dreamlike (or nightmare) feel to the tone. An all round professional and competent production, which treats the disturbing plot line incredibly well. 

Best Bit: Opening sequence and Reece Webster. 

Worst Bit: Somewhat unresolved plot. 

Final thought: "Just say No!", oh, sorry, that was for drugs wasn't it. 

Read a condensed review of this film on Twitter here.

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