One Eyed Girl

One Eyed Girl is a captivating Australian psychological drama-thriller that was released in 2013. This gripping movie, which is set in a fascinating backdrop of despair and hope, reflects a deep exploration of faith and forgiveness. The movie stands out due to the impressive performances of its main characters, such as Mark Leonard Winter, Tilda Cobham-Hervey, and Sara West.

The plot of One Eyed Girl projects an exhilarating drama, revolving around the life of a dispirited psychiatrist, Travis, portrayed by Mark Leonard Winter. Travis experiences a personal catastrophe leading him to a broken, suicidal, and depressed state of mind. His life is consumed by guilt, depression, alcohol, and self-destruction until he meets a mysterious girl named Grace, played by the talented Tilda Cobham-Hervey.

Grace is an enigmatic young woman who hands him a flyer that promises salvation to him. Bordering on the brink of utter despair, Travis decides to follow the guidance offered to him. The leaflet leads Travis to a bizarre cult in a remote location where he finds a community of individuals living under the spiritual guidance of an enlightening leader named Father Jay, exquisitely acted by Steve Mouzakis. Father Jay recruits lost souls who have given up on life and attempts to inject them with newfound hope and self-forgiveness.

However, as Travis immerses himself in the cult's teachings and practices, he begins to suspect that something ominous is lurking beneath all the nurturing love and spiritual awakening. The film illustrates human vulnerabilities and exposes the susceptibility of lost souls to manipulation. The plot delves deep into questions of faith, spirituality, and the lengths people go to seek solace and comprehension.

One Eyed Girl demonstrates the duality of humanity; the sinner and the saint within everyone. It visually questions the age-old dilemma; can bad people do good things and vice versa? The way the film is made presents both sides of the coin, making it even more interesting and thought-provoking for the audience. It's an exploration and critique of radical faith but at its core, it's essentially a redemption story.

One Eyed Girl is a bold, challenging but ultimately rewarding look at redemption and forgiveness. Highlighted by the intense performances of the cast, the film's power also lies in its unsettling atmosphere that continues to build tension throughout its run. The unique storytelling style and impressive cinematography make this thriller truly enthralling to watch. In the end, viewers are left questioning their moral compass, as the film dares to delve into some of the darker aspects of human nature, exposing vulnerabilities and highlighting resilience and hope amidst despair, thus leaving an everlasting impression.

Sara West, portraying the character of Sarah in the film, delivers a chilling performance that contributes significantly to the eerie and disconcerting atmosphere of the movie. Her role being crucial to the narrative adds depth to the character, making it impossible for the viewers to ignore her presence in the film.

The film's visceral depiction of its characters' struggles is absorbing, thanks to the distinguished direction by Nick Remy Matthews. His narrative style, along with Stuart Simpson's haunting and melancholic cinematography, creates an effective mood providing an eerie ambiance throughout.

In addition to the engrossing narrative and dynamic performances by all actors, the score of One Eyed Girl is equally impressive. The music lingers in the background, adding to the movie's tone and complimenting the story very well.

One Eyed Girl takes its audience on a mesmerizing journey of twisted faith and redemption that continually challenges perceptions and expectations, making it a noteworthy entry into the psychological thriller genre. It's a deep, enthralling investigation into the human psyche and the unconventional paths some people take to find solace. It's an intense, cinema verite-style movie with an unflinching look at the complex strands of faith, manipulation, and salvation and is very much worth a watch.