Considering all of that has been done since the advent of motion pictures, it is quite amazing to think that there is still some originality left in filmmakers. Everyone complains that no one has any more ideas, that everything that gets released is a remake or a reboot. Although this seems like the case, it is not so. One perfect example is Riccardo Paoletti’s Neverlake.
Jenny (Daisy Keeping) is on vacation visiting her father in Tuscany. She is excited for some time away from school and a chance to finally visit the famous Neverlake that she has heard so much about. After her father breaks his promise, Jenny decides to find her own way to the lake and is met by a young child. Jenny returns the lost child to her home where others just like her are staying. It is this group that teaches Jenny that things are not as they seem and perhaps there is more truth to the legend than some may have her believe.
Neverlake is a slow-paced supernatural thriller that does a lot of things right. The acting is great, which is always a gamble when tuning in to indie horror films; I was very impressed by the [mainly] young cast and feel that each performer did a wonderful job.
I love the fact that the film takes place in Italy and is centered around ancient Etruscan mythology and history. In my opinion, the horror genre doesn’t take advantage of other civilizations’ history enough and there is tons of untapped material out there. Riccardo Paoletti has definitely done the right thing by making a film that is so close to home for him, proving that he indeed knows his material. Directors should certainly take note of this!
I had no idea where this film was leading and although the majority of the film was slow going, the last 20 minutes or so more than made up for it. The creativity of Neverlake’s plot, coupled with an inventive final act, made up for any pacing issues that occurred throughout the film.
If you are a fan of the supernatural and support independent horror, check out Neverlake, available now on VOD and coming to DVD July 29.
I give this film 2.5 bronze statues out of 5.
