Directed by Rupert Glasson. Starring Robert Taylor, Lisa Chappell & Sam Parsonson. 2009. UK/Australia. Psychological Thriller. 89mins.
Cert 15. DVD release date 28th December 2009. £12.99.

A couple dealing with the drama of being unable to conceive a child are suddenly thrown into a tense battle after a moment of drunken madness when the woman sleeps with a young stranger who has just drifted into town and becomes pregnant. This boy has brought with him a bag full of crazy that he intends to unleash on the couple, and what follows is a psychological assault on the characters and the viewer.

The thing you realise from watching the documentary ‘Not Quite Hollywood’ (which I suggest you do) is that there are a lot more fantastic Australian films out there than most people realise. Sure, everyone has seen or heard of a handful of them, but there is a recent discovery of a lot of hidden gems, and I mean a lot. And this is exactly what ‘Coffin Rock’ is, a hidden gem! Other films such as ‘Wolf Creek’ and ‘Dying Breed’ have proven to us that the Australians know how to make a horror film and this is no exception.

The title of the film already sets the mood and evokes a feeling of dread before we have even begun. We open with some tatty old super 8 footage that is creepy (mainly due to the sound) but never really explained. The viewer realises that the footage is actually vital to the narrative and goes a long way to making a few serious statements. (I could write an essay on that point but you guys can figure it out during the film I’m sure.)

Prepare for a real slow-burner that takes a long time to get anywhere, but if you like that kind of film then this is definitely a film for you. At times it is unoriginal and obvious, but this does not distract from the overall effect of the film as it has been handled with such care. The first half of the film is an emotional drama and then it suddenly explodes into full on thriller territory. It’s very disturbing. By the end of film you are left feeling that one stupid mistake can have such a great impact on many lives, in ways you may not even realise.

The film sets up very believable characters in a very believable situation; this is helped by realistic dialogue and very strong performances from the three leads. Characters and personalities are slowly and subtly revealed. Each character deserves his or her own sympathy and during the film each one gains that from the viewer. We watch as each of their personal dramas unfold. There is a lot more going on here than is at first obvious. Sam Parsonson plays unhinged with pure ease. He is subtle and manipulative, which is where the real horror lies. We also believe that he can explode into a fit of violence at any moment, which he does several times. The film brings us more into the realms of real-life drama and violence. Parsonson does a great job of revealing a human side to his character as well which makes it feel so different from so many other similar films. Also on top form is Robert Taylor, also seen in other Australian genre films ‘Rogue’ and ‘Storm Warning’. He plays his flawed character perfectly and makes him so easy to relate to which is of great importance at the films conclusion.

As mentioned earlier, the sound design of the film is excellent. A lot of the film is sparse, highlighting the feelings of the character and the emotional explosions. The music plays subtly and draws us closer to the film. It is only used when necessary and this works so well. It’s an amazing score too.

As with the other current Australian films, the film is visually impressive. The foreign locations are simply awesome. Huge epic vistas are contrasted with smaller, battered fishing towns. Director Rupert Glasson and Director of Photography David Foreman have managed to create an instant sense of unease and foreboding with the carefully crafted shots in the film. Dark colours make what could be a beautiful location seem empty and deadly. The overall tone of the film is drastically shaped here.

Coffin Rock’ may not be well advertised and hidden away on a DVD shelf, but if you are a fan of Psychological Thrillers then this is definitely one to track down. The narrative and tension will have you on edge for the duration and it may be one of those films that will stay with you long after you have viewed it.

The retail disc for ‘Coffin Rock’ is rather short of features, containing simply a ‘Making Of’ documentary. It’s a shame, as the viewer would probably like to delve into the film a little more after watching it. It’s not one of those films that are likely to have a re-release later down the line so I guess this is it for the bonus features. Short but sweet.

By Russell Gomm

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GORE IN THE STORE
5 STAR FAB - 1 STAR RUBBISH

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