Intruder

Intruder (2016) is a riveting psychological thriller that seeps into the deep recesses of an individual's mind, probing into the extent of fear and paranoia that one can experience when boundaries between reality and imagination blur. The movie is directed by filmmaker Travis Zariwny, also known as Travis Z, who is acclaimed for his work in horror and thriller genres. The ensemble cast includes Louise Linton, John Robinson, and electronic music artist Moby, making an unusually rare appearance on the big screen.

The story revolves around the life of Elizabeth, a beautiful young cellist, portrayed by Louise Linton. Elizabeth lives an idyllic existence in Portland, Oregon, lured by the tranquil beauty of heavy rain, lush landscapes, and soothing symphony. However, her peaceful sojourn is disrupted when a mysterious figure enters her world. This stranger randomly and disturbingly seems to appear everywhere, offsetting an eerie foreboding that injects fear into Elizabeth's life while causing immense psychological torment. As she grapples with the relentless fear, her happy, serene world starts to crumble, turning into a hazy nightmare.

John Robinson brings to life the character of John, Elizabeth's overly protective boyfriend, who tries to alleviate her fears. Being a local detective adds a unique layer to his character, as he finds himself enmeshed in the mystery that is shrouding Elizabeth’s life. John is torn between his professional obligation to decipher the case objectively and his emotional impulse to protect the woman he loves. His in-depth understanding of crime scenes and investigation techniques further emphasizes an intricately woven narrative, full of suspense and convoluted twists.

The film extends the tendrils of perplexity by introducing an ambiguously unsettling character, Moby. Moby, as a next-door neighbor, is initiated into the plot as an unforthcoming person with peculiar behaviors. His eccentric persona nurtures the web of mistrust and paranoia, contributing to the overall suspense, and leaving Elizabeth on edge.

The brilliance of 'Intruder' lies in its capability to engage viewers using minimalistic settings and character development that plays around imagination and reality, straddling the realm of visual manifestation of psychological fears. The plot cleverly peels off layers, inducing a chilling sensation, the echo of suspense resonating till the end.

Travis Z’s cinematic knack for building tension is vividly displayed in 'Intruder'. The menace lurking in the shadows and the uncanny semblance of normalcy keep the audience bitten by the bug of curiosity. The ingenious use of noir and atmospheric horror to depict a threatening presence only amplifies the element of the unknown. With each passing second, the ingenious use of subtle auditory cues and visually chilling frames for relentless suspense amplifies the movie's thriller quotient.

Louise Linton delivers a compelling performance, embodying the embodiment of a tormented soul under siege. Her portrayal of Elizabeth is captivating, filled with nuances of a character slowly degrading under the weight of psychological terror. John Robinson complements this performance as he delivers a nuanced role of 'the protector', showcasing his on-screen pleasure yet peppered with touches of fear and confusion. Part of the film's appeal is witnessing each character’s ability to navigate the uncertainties that present themselves, the adrenaline that skyrocketing with each unpredictable moment.

On a technical front, 'Intruder' showcases some commendable craftsmanship such as the use of glum cinematography, indulging in tones of greys, blues and blacks. The clever use of lighting and shadow play, paired with eerie back-alley shots, abandoned houses, and desolate woods, create a deep sense of discomfort and dread. Enhancing these effects further are the film's chilling score - a blend of orchestral symphonies blending in a harmonic coherence with haunting silence.

Intruder (2016) is not a conventional horror movie that relies on jump scares or grotesque imaginations but rather delves into the human psyche. It's a psychologically fuelled thriller that threatens the audience’s sense of security and explores the confines of paranoia. By instilling dread through ambiguity, the film leaves the audience with a haunting resonance that lingers long after the film's conclusion. If you are someone who enjoys psychological thrillers, 'Intruder' is a gripping, suspenseful watch that keeps you on tenterhooks till the very end.