Review of Shallow Grave (1994) by Orlok W — 11 Apr 2012

Shallow Grave is actually a very simplistic film. Three friends take in a new lodger, who overdoses and leaves behind a suitcase of money, which they decide to keep. However, from that you get a brilliant story of the deterioration of friendships when under pressure. The story doesnâ(TM)t really matter, it is more four people who do: Danny Boyle, Kerry Fox, Ewan McGregor and Christopher Eccleston.

Danny Boyle was introduced to the world with this film, and you can tell it is a Boyle film from the beginning, the action is fast-paced and has several weird dream-esque moments mixed in. The film overall is very appealing, and easily accessible.

Kerry Fox is probably the bitch of the film, she portrays very well the female protagonist battling off two men against each other, several lines of hers have a deeper effect then is obvious.

Ewan McGregor is an asshole all through the film, he acts a dick to everyone and annoys the shit out of youâ¦yet he is fascinating. There is no way you would watch this and not feel surprised this is his first film, he is brilliant from start to finish, draws you in, and makes you hate him yet care for him.

However, I feel that Eccleston deserves the most attention for his amazing portrayal of a character slowly deteriorating into madness, becoming desperate and murderous. At the beginning he is probably the most likable, but by the end of the film he has turned into an evil character, and it is all easily believable through Ecclestonâ(TM)s portrayal. Definitely recommended.