NEVER LET GO
Starring: Halle Berry, Anthony B. Jenkins, and Percy Daggs IV
Director: Alexandre Aja
NICK
Lionsgate has rolled out some of my least favourite films this year, so I didn't have high hopes for Never Let Go. Turns out, it was a nice surprise. Aside from trying to direct the viewer a little too strongly, it keeps you guessing what is real and what isn't. Both Anthony B. Jenkins (Samuel) and Percy Daggs IV (Nolan) engross you in the family drama while director Alexandre Aja creates a creepy and unsettling atmosphere for you to get lost in. It’s nothing revolutionary, but there have been FAR WORSE horror offerings this year. Give this a shot.
PRESTON
Never Let Go has some issues with its tension building, pacing, consistency in storytelling, and unsatisfying conclusion. Still, we are given an original plot concept, a thoroughly creepy setting, and some terrific acting by the whole cast. In fact, the cinematography, makeup, and visual effects are all good too. I didn’t think a rope tied to a house would play as a horror film, but director Alexandre Aja proved me wrong. It still would have been much better had it… Never Let Go of the initial tension - you knew a dad joke was lurking somewhere.
AMARÚ
Never Let Go is a creepy and chilling thriller that will have you questioning what’s real. Backed by strong performances from young actors Anthony B. Jenkins and Percy Daggs IV, which ground Halle Berry’s supernatural presence, the story is a solidly frightening slow burn. It continuously puts doubt into the origins and reality of the family’s beliefs, and that makes you care about their well being more and more as you wonder if their actions are tragic or life-saving. Director Alexandre Aja furthers your uncertainty with perpetually gloomy visuals, tying the film together in an intensely unnerving aura you won’t be able to shake.
