Aura

Aura is a unique blend of psychological thriller and supernatural horror, from director Steve Lawson. Released in 2018, Aura blends a striking visual style with a deeply unsettling story, to create a film experience that stays with you long after the credits roll.

The story of Aura begins following the sudden death of Mitch Walker's (Shane Taylor) mother. After her death, Mitch inherits an antique camera which is said to have the strange spirit-revealing ability. It is believed to capture 'Auras', and reveal truths that are unseen to the naked eye. Not only does the camera possess an eerie presence, but it's also accompanied by a chilling history that dates back to the Second World War. It is rumoured to have been developed by the Nazis in an attempt to create a super-soldier. The camera was supposedly a part of horrific scientific experiments with an aim to imbue German soldiers with supernatural abilities.

The character of Mitch is portrayed by Shane Taylor, known for his performances in films like ‘Saving Private Ryan’ and ‘Band of Brothers’. He successfully captures the escalating paranoia and fear of a man on the brink, who disregards the camera's disturbing history, and is drawn into the pursuit of the supernatural. As he experiments with the camera, his obsession begins to consume him, leading him on a terrifying journey that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy.

The film also stars Jeanine Nerissa Sothcott as Diane, the friendly yet mysterious neighbour of Mitch. Diane appears supportive and comforting to Mitch at his initial stages of grief. However, as the film goes on, Diane’s character adds an unexpected twist to the plot, further intensifying the suspense in the storyline. Jeanine delightfully instils an air of mystery that enhances the atmospheric tension throughout the movie.

Veteran actress Rula Lenska plays the role of a psychic, named, Adrienne. With the additional layer of psychic phenomena, the film not only explores the supernatural, but also delves into spiritualism, adding another complex layer to the narrative. Lenska's portrayal of Adrienne is particularly noteworthy, her charm and enigmatic presence adding greatly to the eerie and unsettling atmosphere of the film.

In terms of visual style, Aura is artfully constructed and shot. The film skillfully uses light and shadow to create an eerie and unsettling atmosphere, perfectly capturing the essence of supernatural horror. Innovative camera angles and the powerful use of colours add to the intense visual theme of the movie. It successfully employs technology and antique artifacts as an almost omnipresent character throughout the film.

The film's sound design is equally impressive. A key element of Aura’s unsettling effectiveness is its use of sound. The creaking doors, footsteps echoing through the house, and sudden bursts of static from the haunted camera, all contribute to a soundscape that’s as nuanced as it is powerful.

However, Aura is not just about scares. At its heart, it's also a character study, a deep dive into the mind of a man torn apart by loss and driven by obsession. It explores themes of grief, isolation, obsession, and the blurred line between the real and the supernatural. The narrative unfolds at a slow-burning pace, but it is the mystery and unrelenting tension that keeps the audience glued to their seats.

Aura is a film that demands the viewer's attention and thought, leaving them speculating long after the last scene fades out. Coupled with compelling performances and a darkly rich storyline, Aura possesses charm that transcends the typical horror genre, making it a cinematic horror gem.

The movie offers a chilling exploration of supernatural occurances that satisfies both horror die-hards and new initiates. It's a tale of suspense and mystery laced with horror that leaves the viewer immersed, intrigued, and frightened all at once. Whether you're a fan of horror, thriller, or supernatural drama, Aura is a fascinating addition to your watch list.