INNUENDO

"Innuendo" is an intriguing Australian independent drama with an art house flavor, released in 2017. Directed by Saara Lamberg, who also wrote the script and played the lead, "Innuendo" is an unexpected combination of subtle mystery, complex characters, and surreal imagery. It is supplemented by critical nuances of human nature, massive supporting roles from Brendan Bacon and Andy Hazel, and an intricate plot that keeps viewers guessing until the very end.

Saara Lamberg portrays the character of Tuuli, a Finnish woman who flees from a dark secret in her homeland to Australia. The protagonist is a peculiar mix of naivety and perceptiveness, displaying a paradoxical character shroud in mystery. She is ostensibly searching for her long-lost twin brother but the underlying purpose of her journey is to escape from something much more disturbing and profound – her own past.

Brendan Bacon, as Ben, offers a remarkable performance, playing a charismatic yet mysterious stranger who befriends Tuuli. His charm seems to captivate our heroine instantly leading to a twisted friendship with ulterior motives. Meanwhile, Andy Hazel comes into the picture as Thomas, the marginal figure, a local artist whom Tuuli meets, and who helps to reveal more shades of her multifaceted nature.

"Innuendo" shines because of the exceptional quality it possesses for an independent film. Despite the constraints usually associated with indie cinema, the cinematography is truly spectacular. The film successfully captures the essence of the locations, be it the icy wilderness of Finland, or Australia’s vibrant city of Melbourne. Every scene is carefully detailed and the shots are breathtaking, doing justice to both the barren, icy desolate landscapes of Finland and the bustling, colorful life in Australia.

The film's narrative injects a sense of slow-burn dread right from the beginning, setting an atmosphere of unease that persists throughout. As the plot unfolds, we are introduced to a fierce exploration of the psychology of the central character and an interesting study into the dynamics of personal relationships. The pacing is note-perfect, with each revelation timed to increase the tension.

The screenplay demonstrates how life takes strange turns and puts one's character to the test. The title "Innuendo" is apt as it depicts how daily subtle hints or suggestions may constitute suggestive behavior leading to a deluge of revelations. It visually represents the exploration of the human psyche, isolation, the struggle to fit in, personal redemption, and how each character copes with their past.

The soundtrack is both haunting and soothing creating the perfect soundscapes to convey the emotions of the characters, especially during the transitions between Finland and Australia. It augments the essence of the scenes, providing a deeper, sentimental touch.

On the surface, "Innuendo" seems like a woman's journey to find her twin brother, but quickly the layers are peeled back to reveal a deeper, darker story. It’s a compelling and unsettling examination of human nature and how far one might go to escape their past. The film isn't afraid to tackle difficult themes such as mental health, trauma, and societal pressure.

Another stand-out aspect of "Innuendo" is the performances of the ensemble cast, who bring their characters to life in a profound and believable manner. Saara Lamberg's portrayal of Tuuli is both powerful and vulnerable, creating a character who is easy to sympathize with, but also somewhat unpredictable. Brendan Bacon, as the mysterious stranger Ben, also delivers a solid performance. And Andy Hazel’s portrayal of the caring yet complex Thomas adds several layers to the film’s narrative.

In essence, "Innuendo" is a powerful psychodrama that beautifully uses the medium of film to explore deep-seated underlying themes. The movie's greatest strength lies in its ability to keep the audience absorbed, guessing and reassessing what they know about the characters and their motivations. Pulled together by strong performances, impressive cinematography, and an engrossing storyline, Saara Lamberg's "Innuendo" is a captivating psychological drama that leaves a lasting impression. It is a testament to the power of independent cinema and the psychological study of flawed, complex characters.