Who knew such a small horror film, could create such a long lasting effect? Scott Gentry reviews "In Fear", a new British horror, from first-time director Jeremy Lovering.

"In Fear" (15)
Director: Jeremy Lovering.
Starring: Alice Englert, Iain De Caestecker and Allen Leech.
Rated: 15, for containing strong violence, threat and language.
Running time: 85 minutes.
Out now in UK cinemas.

Two weeks after their first meeting, a couple, Tom and Lucy, decide to attend a music festival; all the way in Ireland. Whilst on their way to spend a night in a hotel, the couple soon find themselves lost in a maze of country roads. Before long, panic sets in and the possibilities of them being followed by someone or something, become ever more realised. 

British horror films have certainly grown in popularity over the past ten years. With fantastic examples like "Kill List" (2011) and "Eden Lake" (2008), Britain has proved it's capabilities for making decent horror films; has not been lost. 

However, "In Fear" is nothing quite like anything we've seen before. Filmed on a considerably lower budget (compared to "The Descent"), "In Fear" still creates fear, shock and the ability to entertain, without spending large amounts of money. 

Saying that, the film only offers a few new elements to the already crowded genre. This is simply unfortunate, but what the film lacks in large set pieces and a huge cast, is made up for in the tension and frighteningly shot close-ups. 

The main cast (who are on-screen nearly all of the time) develop their characters remarkably well, delivering a style which constantly keeps the audience hooked onto their every move. The stand out performance is from Englert, who has not starred in many films, but adapts her character; to suit the scene fantastically well. 

The soundtrack keeps the edginess as tight as a drum and helps to evolve the quieter scenes, into some particularly tension-filled moments, between the main leads. 

Verdict

The first two acts entertain perfectly well, but it's unfortunate that the last third of the film, partly loses it's momentum. Despite this, "In Fear" delivers everything it promised, dark and spooky shocks; for a small price. 

6.9 stars out of 10

Written by Scott Gentry.

Film Rating Key

1-2 stars out of ten = Awful.

3-4 stars out of ten = Average.

5-6 stars out of ten = Good.

7-8 stars out of ten = Excellent.

9-10 stars out of ten = Amazing.