Death Walks

Death Walks is a unique and engaging independent horror film released in 2016. Directed by Spencer Hawken, the film boasts an ensemble cast featuring Francesca Ciardi (known for her role in Cannibal Holocaust), Lucinda Rhodes Thakrar (known for Kung Fu Flid) and Joelle Koissi (from Wonder Woman), amongst others. The film's plot is suspenseful and gripping: an unpredictable and chilling ride that abounds in classic horror tropes while also offering fresh twists that keep the audience guessing.

The story unfolds on an eerie night at a seemingly regular shopping centre named East Brooke. The tranquillity within is disturbed as the characters soon find themselves embroiled in a deadly game of survival. The unsuspecting characters, each with their unique personalities and histories, find themselves trapped without any inkling of the horrifying circumstances they're about to encounter. Francesca Ciardi convincingly plays Louise, the skeptical store manager, who is forced to confront her fears and insecurities. Lucinda Rhodes Thakrar, taking on the role of Stella, delivers a captivating performance as the complex, sharp-witted woman with a mysterious past. Joelle Koissi masterfully brings to life a compelling, nuanced character whose personal journey intertwines with the film's overarching narrative.

What starts as a regular night quickly takes a terrifying turn with the bizarre happenings at the shopping mall. Just as the characters start processing their predicament, they find themselves up against a malevolent entity that ruthlessly hunts them down. As the night progresses, they must unravel the truth behind their horrifying circumstances and find a way to survive.

What distinguishes Death Walks from other horror films is its unique spin on the genre. The film expertly utilizes its eerie shopping center setting to amplify the atmosphere of dread and suspense. The sense of isolation, amplified by the echoing corridors and stark lighting of the mall, is pure horror gold. The film's direction ensures atmospheric tension, with anticipatory camera angles and clever use of space, all contributing to an escalating sense of dread.

The script by Hawken is taut, laden with clever dialogue, and pushes the plot forward at an efficient pace. The characters are well-rounded with believable relationships that ground the horror in reality. Although their predicament is supernatural, their reactions are human, which further adds to the film's credulity and stakes. Building empathy for the characters through this realism makes the ensuing supernatural terror all the more impactful and unsettling.

In terms of performances, the cast is uniformly strong, marshaling a mix of scripting and improvisation to create believable characters who viewers will genuinely worry about as the situation escalates. Each character has a distinctive personality, portrayed convincingly by the cast, making the audience invested in their struggles. Thakrar and Ciardi's characters, in particular, stand out with their gripping performances.

Death Walks also showcases some astounding special effects that pack a punch considering the project's indie status. It's a credit to the production team that the film never loses its edge and tension due to its special effects. Instead, it adds to the mounting fear and the supernatural dread the characters and the audience experience.

In conclusion, Death Walks is a clever, uniquely spun horror movie that clings to the traditional aspects of its genre while introducing innovative elements. With its skillfully-built tension, creepy setting, great performances, and tight script, it creates a compelling narrative that manages to unsettle and thrill. It's an atmospheric gem that keeps its audience on tenterhooks from the beginning till the end and is a must-watch for horror fans seeking a fresh take on the genre.