Dark Signal

Dark Signal (2016) is a thrilling British horror movie marked by intense suspense, supernatural elements, and a plot that intertwines the lives of multiple characters in a profound and interesting way. With exceptional performances from Siwan Morris, Gareth David-Lloyd, and Joanna Ignaczewska, the film spins a chilling narrative and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

The film is set in the eerie setting of the remote Welsh valleys, with its isolated lanes and open countryside tufted with woods. 'Dark Signal' makes the most of this atmospheric backdrop, tapping into the traditional elements of horror and suspense, rooted in a location where isolation and darkness weave the perfect setting for a spine-chilling narrative.

Siwan Morris plays Laurie Wolf, a dedicated single mother who is entangled in financial difficulties and is desperate for a lucky break. Morris offers a sincere performance, portraying Laurie's pain and determination with a rawness that endears her to the audience. Far from being simply a distressed mother, Laurie is drawn into mysterious circumstances that force her to showcase both the strength and resilience of her character.

On the other side of the story, we meet Kate, played by Joanna Ignaczewska. Kate is a young woman in a turbulent relationship who becomes the unwilling participant in a brutal robbery. Ignaczewska beautifully handles the depth of her character, revealing a layer of vulnerability and fear mixed with unexpected courage.

Adding another layer to the multi-layered story is Ben, played by Gareth David-Lloyd. Ben is a sound engineer for a local radio station on its last live broadcast. Employed by the hilariously flamboyant and boisterous radio psychic Carla Zaza (played by Cinzia Monreale), Ben's role becomes more and more essential to the plot as the station purportedly tunes into a dark signal from the beyond.

The film is directed by Edward Evers-Swindell, known for his work in editing and sound department in several films. His understanding and manipulation of sound in 'Dark Signal' give the film an extra edge, adding depth to the suspense and terror. Along with the unconventional camera angles and thoughtful cinematography used throughout, 'Dark Signal' feels like a fresh take with an original spin on traditional horror.

Edward is accompanied by Antony Jones in co-writing the script, infusing elements of suspense and crime thriller into the main horror genre. The narrative keeps you guessing until the very end, as the events in the lives of the central characters unfold in a manner that's far from predictable, yet absorbing. This mélange of intersecting storylines is what sets 'Dark Signal' apart from conventional horror movies - its ability to fuse multiple genres while keeping the tension and suspense high.

With its haunting score and skillful sound design, along with its use of silence to increase tension, 'Dark Signal' unfolds as much in its atmosphere as it does in its storyline. The supernatural elements are placed carefully throughout the narrative, and rather than relying heavily on jump scares, the movie errs more towards suspense and the mounting sense of dread.

In conclusion, 'Dark Signal' is a unique mix of crime, thriller, and supernatural horror movie intercut with moments of unexpected humor. It is a film that captivates the audience with suspense and enthralls with its complex intertwined plots. The rich performances of Siwan Morris, Gareth David-Lloyd, and Joanna Ignaczewska give the film a depth of character, while the striking visuals and chilling soundscape make it a genuine edge-of-your-seat experience. Not only for horror fans but for anyone willing to delve into a movie that stirs their senses and makes them question their hold on reality, ‘Dark Signal’ offers an engaging and thrilling ride.