The Ferryman

The Ferryman is a riveting supernatural thriller released in 2007. The movie was directed by the acclaimed Chris Graham, known for his distinct personification of characters while capturing equally rich tales that keep viewers on their toes. The movie stars a striking constellation of actors, including the charismatic John Rhys-Davies, the versatile Kerry Fox, and the compelling Tamer Hassan.

The film is set in the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, with its narrative spatially confined to a private charter yacht out in the deep blue sea. This is where a surreal tale unfolds as passengers embark on an adventure with unexpected occurrences, in which the sea itself becomes a character, encapsulating the drama within its vast, unforgiving, and unpredictable nature.

John Rhys-Davies, most recognized for his robust roles in epics like 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'Indiana Jones,' breathes life into the character of The Ferryman. Rhys-Davies excellently portrays the titular character, mixing an eerie charm with a foreboding intensity that keeps viewers on the edge throughout the movie. His character brings a sense of suspense that casts long, suspenseful shadows throughout the story.

Kerry Fox, renowned for her performance in ‘Shallow Grave,’ and the assertive Tamer Hassan, known for his hard-hitting roles in films like ‘Layer Cake’ and ‘The Business,’ enhance the thriller with their resounding presence. Their on-screen chemistry and individual performances add depth and facets to their characters that drive the narrative forward.

The story kicks off with a group of people chartering a yacht for a vacation. The merry band comprises conspicuously diverse characters, from the rich playboy to the grizzled seaman, the beautiful damsel to the mysterious stranger—each carrying their own unique personalities and secrets. Tension begins to mount when they rescue a man marooned in the sea—a man who is far more dangerous than he initially appears.

Unbeknown to the unsuspecting group, they have taken on board a supernatural entity, the eponymous Ferryman, who demands a terrible price for salvation. The ancient mythology of the 'Ferryman' is explored, offering viewers a fusion of age-old tales with modern sea-faring adventures. The movie takes a deep dive into the legend of Charon, the Ferryman of Hades, who carries souls of the newly deceased across the River Styx that divided the world of the living from the world of the dead. However, here, Charon's domain is no river but an expansive, unending ocean.

The plot thickens when the rescued man, being part of an age-old curse, turns their dream vacation into a nightmare, forcing each passenger to face the darkest corners of their souls. Forced to make dire decisions as they navigate their sea, their morality is tested.

The Ferryman successfully captures an intense, haunting atmosphere, which remains consistent throughout the film. Its strength lies in the thrills and chills supplied by an unfolding supernatural swath that infuses its ominous presence over the sea and the yacht's occupants. The suspense is amplified by the confined and isolated setting, as the vast ocean around offers no escape, bringing out a feeling of claustrophobic dread.

The narrative is smooth with an excellently-staged sense of terror, and it rolls out at a steady pace, slowly escalating toward higher stakes. The ocean's ceaseless motion foregrounds the relentless threat brewing within the innocent-looking yacht.

The Ferryman is a perfect blend of modern storytelling with mythological elements, making it a fantastic watch for those who love thrillers with a side of ancient lore. Furthermore, spectacular performances from the cast, a sturdy script, and artistic cinematography make this movie a unique and entertaining supernatural thriller. The Ferryman serves up horror and dread in spades, leaving audiences pondering the depth of the human soul and the lengths one would go to survive.