The Samaritans

The 2017 film, The Samaritans, is a gripping horror thriller which offers viewers a unique twist on the genre. The film is directed by Doug Bollinger who co-writes it with Keith Collins. The cast includes Keith Collins, Doug Bollinger, Timothy Laurel Harrison, and others who all bring the suspense-laden storyline to life with their excellent performances. With its haunting atmosphere, mysterious undertones, and chilling storyline, The Samaritans firmly places itself in the realm of must-watch independent horror films.

The plot revolves around four co-workers – Scott (played by Keith Collins), Madeline (played by Annelise Nielsen), Vince (played by Doug Bollinger) and Rick (played by Timothy Laurel Harrison). They all work for a tech startup company and have created a revolutionary application which they believe will change the landscape of the industry and elevate their status from ordinary employees to tech moguls.

Things take an intriguing turn when they decide to meet at a desolate house to finalize their business deal, which they believe will be a game-changer for their business. However, as soon as they step into the eerie house, they are met with an inexplicably horrifying force that continues to haunt and torment them. The once simple business deal gradually turns into a deadly nightmare, as they try to unravel the mystery of the house and fight the terror that is unleashed upon them.

The unique premise of the film beautifully combines elements of the supernatural, horror, and psychological thriller genres. The filmmakers have done an incredibly commendable job in maintaining a spine-chilling atmosphere throughout, as they gradually escalate the suspense and horror with effective mise-en-scène.

The direction by Bollinger is precise, skilfully playing up to the tropes of the horror genre, while subverting certain expectations, which makes the movie an exciting watch. Despite being made on a presumably low budget, the team behind The Samaritans has managed to create an engaging film packed with chilling moments and unnerving narrative turns.

The performances are crucial in making the film a compelling watch. Keith Collins gives a fine performance, carrying the weight of the story on his shoulders. His character Scott's emotional and psychological journey forms the crux of the plot. Doug Bollinger and Timothy Laurel Harrison are equally effective in their respective roles, providing stellar support to Collins.

One of the movie's key strengths is its brilliantly constructed script. The film breaks free from numerous clichés often associated with the horror genre. The clever writing-filmmaking duo creates a number of twists and turns that will keep you gripped to the edge of your seat, making the unpredictable narrative an absolute thrill for fans of the genre.

The Samaritans utilises its horror elements to an effective degree, providing for a few genuinely chilling moments that will remain with viewers long after the credits roll. The eerie set, the use of shadows and lighting, and the bone-chilling sound effects used throughout the film add immense intensity and dread to the narrative.

All in all, fans of independent horror films will find much to admire in The Samaritans. This movie is testimony to the fact that style, substance and execution matter more than big budget production values. Thanks to its unsettling atmosphere, well-crafted screenplay, and commendable performances, it is an intriguing and suspenseful take on the horror genre. Add to this the underlying commentary on technocratic society and the struggles of the startup culture, and you've got a horror film that doesn't shy away from tackling contemporary issues along with serving up shocks and scares. The Samaritans should not be missed by fans of innovative, eerie, and thought-provoking cinema.