This Norwegian film, while thick with atmosphere, ominous setup and some genuinely creepy dream sequences turns out to be more of a mystery in horror trappings, but not a particularly good one. The setup and premise is reminiscent of many other supernatural orphan films and while it offers some genuine twists and unexpected detours, it all unfortunately moves at a languid pace. Many of the major mysteries are resolved rather quickly, and the movie seems to spin its heels past the 90 minute mark.. It is gorgeously shot, with cinematography and acting excellent across the board and there’s some genuine talent both in front and behind the camera. The filmmakers make great use of the setting, however the major drawback here is with the writing. The main character seems to exist in a state of oblivious entitlement, willing to break every form of social rule, taboo, and basic manners while existing as a stranger in a strange land. She ignores blatant red flags, willingly puts herself into sketchy and mind-bogglingly dangerous situations, and places others at risk simply to satisfy her own whims.Honestly at one point I was watching in hope for more of a reckoning before the filmmakers unveil ultimate foes so cartoonishly evil, they’re impossible to root or sympathize with and, like the main character, you simply want the whole mess to be over. There is a rather decent wrapup, and a ghost-ex-machina that provides a brief and interesting moment or two, but on the whole this is too little a return on the viewer’s investment as a mystery or horror film.
Leave (2022)