Review of Beast (2018) by Jamie H — 23 Dec 2018

Moll has had a privilaged upbringing in a close- knit community on the island of Jersey. She is mostly controlled by her over-bearing mother played superbly by Geraldine James. When a scruffy looking stranger saves her from the unwanted advances of a local leech she sees an opportunity for escape and rebellion, while eventually falling for the stranger, much to the disgust of friends and family. However, there is also a serial killer on the loose and suspicions and evidence begins to point to Moll's new friend. To say anymore would reveal spoilers but this was a superb psychological thriller that never revealed more than it needed to keep you guessing. It also makes you question who is the true beast of the title as we learn more of the central players past and intentions. Jessie Buckley who played Moll was fantastic and surprisingly so was Johnny Flynn as love interest / possible serial killer Pascal who I had previously only known from folk music circles.

Very different from your usual Hollywood thrillers. Highly recommended.