Evil Never Dies

Evil Never Dies is a thrilling entry into the horror-thriller genre, directed by Martyn Pick. This independent British film packs a chilling punch, deftly wrapping the elements of mystery, the supernatural, and macabre horror into one suspenseful package. The cast, headlined by notable actors such as Tony Scannell, Graham Cole, Anouska Mond, and Fliss Walton, deliver nail-biting performances that encapsulate the eerie atmosphere of the plot.

The film predominantly revolves around a retired cop, Thomas Jakeman, portrayed effortlessly by Tony Scannell, best known for his role in 'The Bill.' Jakeman is a man tainted by a troubled past. His fraught career, marred by violent cases and murderous psychopaths, has left him with a dark cloud of depression and an indelible scar on his psyche. His struggle to find peace and closure forms a substantial part of this narrative.

The otherwise quiet but grief-stricken life of Jakeman is further disrupted when he is called back to action, albeit unofficially. The location is the haunted canals and deserted waterways of East London, a setting characterized by eerie silence and grim beauty, strategically used to amplify the horror quotient.

As Jakeman delves deeper into the mysteries enveloping the violent killings he's been tasked to investigate, he's drawn into a supernatural world beyond his comprehension. The killings are grim, brutal, and inexplicably linked to an infamous hangman from quite a few centuries back, delivering a complex mystery for Jakeman to unravel. This investigation takes him on a psychological ride as he himself begins to question his sanity under the overwhelming force of the supernatural events happening around him.

Veteran actor Graham Cole, who also graced the screens in 'The Bill,' gives a strong performance as Sarge. His rapport with Scannell is palpable, providing the much needed emotional and logical balance to Jakeman's spiraling character.

Anouska Mond plays the character of Hayley Summers, a local woman enveloped in grief and terror, who becomes an unexpected accomplice in Jakeman's quest for the truth. Fliss Walton shines as DCI Ruby Munro, with her strong and apt portrayal of a law enforcement official grappling with solving the mystery her own way while battling institutional politics.

In addition to the enthralling performances, the film is heightened by the standout contributions by Katy Manning, P.H. Moriarty, and Neil Maskell. Manning, famous for her role in 'Doctor Who,' brings added warmth and discomfort to the film, increasing the film's intrigue while P.H. Moriarty creates anxiety with his seasoned performance. Neil Maskell presents a convincing component of antagonism that delivers the right punch.

The strength of Evil Never Dies lies in its atmospheric horror and the intricately woven narrative that merges reality with the supernatural. The cinematography plays a pivotal role in setting the mood, portraying the gloomy underbelly of the city, peppered with ancient symbols, shrouded places, and ghostly apparitions. The film also does an excellent job of blending traditional elements of crime thrillers like serial killers and rogue cops with an undercurrent of grim horror and the supernatural.

While the plot’s macabre and gothic elixirs are enough to enthrall the audience, the film notably leaves an indelible mark with its exploration of the human psyche, which further thickens the plot and adds an additional layer of depth. The film elicits an unforgettable sense of unease that clings to the audience long after the credits roll, marking it as an entity as haunting as the specter itself.

Evil Never Dies is not for the faint-hearted, but those seeking an intelligent, suspenseful horror-thriller set in the dark recesses of urban landscapes will find it an intensely indulgent watch. It's a daring exploration into the realms of the supernatural, leaving you questioning reality long after you've left the comfort of your seat. It's a film that masterfully weaves a tale of horror tinged with a gritty reality that'll raise your goosebumps and make you question every shadow in the night. It is, without a doubt, a horror masterpiece that'll stay with you for a while.