Review of Hide (2008) by Lloyd D — 20 Apr 2010

A subtly sharp British thriller almost entirely dialogue driven, but to great effect. Set to the backdrop of sombre Suffolk wetlands, the events of the film take place exclusively in and around a ramshackled bird hide, occupied by a reclusive ornithologist. Before long we are introduced to the second character, a wayward man with a menacing demeanour, seemingly out of place in the barren marsh, who takes shelter from the weather in the bird hide.

Despite an admittedly slow start, it doesn't take long for the interactions between the two leads to become genuinely compelling, and rather than being hindered by the small scale and evidently low budget, these factors only serve to add to the atmosphere and slowly building claustrophobic tension between the characters as they converse.

For two relative unknowns, the performances are remarkable. This premise wouldn't have worked any other way. Macqueen?s socially awkward portrayal of the middle-class recluse contrasts perfectly with Campbell?s common man. Often invasive at first, Macqueen will nervously deflect Campbell?s subtle intimidations and crude remarks by breaking eye contact and shuffling around, changing the subject, or occasionally go into a ramble about his myriad of ?hobbies?. Although as the film proceeds and the men open up to one another, these exchanges evolve, the mood between the two constantly shifting, adding to the ever-present awareness that there is something sinister underlying all this.

A mixture of a clever dialogue and plot, atmospheric tension and a surprisingly dark twist ending that although you may vaguely see coming, can still thoroughly appreciate in its execution, make this film well worth its modest runtime. As Marek Losey?s directorial debut, I?ll be keeping an eye out for his next feature. I?m eager to see what this man can achieve with less in the way of financial constraints.