It’s tragic that Canadian cinema doesn’t generate the discussion it should. While many blockbusters are credited to other nations, Canada has produced its fair share of indie gems like One Week or Scott Pilgrim vs the World. It’s also produced an indie horror film that has captured the attention of critics: The Crescent.
Directed by Seth A. Smith, this film follows the story of a widow, Beth (Danika Vandersteen), and her two-year-old son, Lowen (Woodrow Graves), as they struggle to move on from the loss of Beth’s husband by temporarily living in her mother’s house before selling it. While settling in, Beth finds herself at odd’s end with the locals, particularly an elderly man who takes an interest in her and Lowen.
The Crescent was produced for the 2017 Toronto International Film Festival. There, it was highly praised for the way Smith highlighted the suspense and thrills in the film with psychedelic effects.
While the trippy aesthetic may not appeal to some viewers, the film deserves attention for more than just its visuals. Writer Darcy Spidle weaves a story that fits the aesthetic well.
Another benefit of the indie genre is seeing the uniform vision of a director. Smith was in charge of the soundtrack of the film, which was designed to fit well with its unique visual style. The cast for the film was also well done, especially because Vandersteen and Graves are first-time actors.
The film takes much-needed time to develop its characters instead of immediately plunging them into horrible situations—though there are still plenty of horrible situations to be had.
What works for the film is that it’s not your typical jump scare horror schlock. The film is more unsettling in nature than anything else. It’s the small character tendencies that come across as disturbing.
While I enjoyed the film, I don’t think I would see it again. Several times, the film’s pace drags to a crawl, and certain parts feel over-explained around the climax—right when things should be picking up.
IMDd seems to agree, giving the movie an agreggate rating of 5/10.
I do recommend seeing it at least once, though, simply because it’s a great opportunity to see what Canadian filmmakers are capable of.
Just be warned that The Crescent has a habit of wandering in circles.
