Movie Review: Soft & Quiet (2022)
Synopsis
"Soft & Quiet" is a gripping thriller that unfolds over the course of a single evening. The film follows a group of women who gather at a local community centre to hold a meeting aimed at discussing the formation of a new women’s group. However, as the evening progresses, it becomes evident that their discussions are not wholly innocent. Fueled by a deeply ingrained sense of resentment, prejudice, and an unsettlingly aggressive agenda, the film dives deep into the dark underbelly of social issues including race, privilege, and the dangers of collective extremism.
The evening’s atmosphere quickly transforms from seemingly benign camaraderie to a menacing confrontation when they are interrupted by a group of women from a different ethnic background. What initially appears to be a benign encounter spirals into an overtly hostile confrontation, and the stakes rise dramatically. The characters’ unsavoury motivations come to the fore, and what once felt like a simple gathering morphs into a showcase of raw, uncontainable hatred and violence.
Shot in real-time, the film utilises a tightly-scripted narrative, placing viewers directly in the midst of the intense exchanges, heightening the chilling realism as tensions mount. As allegiances shift, lines are crossed, and masks slip away, “Soft & Quiet” serves as a provocative exploration of the social dynamics that dictate human behaviour in moments of crisis. It offers a disturbing yet essential commentary on how easily civility can disintegrate in the face of fear and prejudice, urging audiences to reflect on their own beliefs and biases.
Cast of Characters
- Carmen Squire as Emily: The film’s primary protagonist, Emily is eager to foster connections within the community but becomes embroiled in the evening’s escalating events.
- Diane Daugherty as Linda: A charismatic leader who steers the group’s conversations and harbours hidden resentments.
- Katie O’Grady as Margaret: A member with a strong opinion, whose history and experiences shape her contentious viewpoints.
- Tom Belle as Gary: Emily’s partner, who represents a more level-headed perspective but struggles to understand the dynamics at play.
- Bradley Patrick as Paul: A brash member of the group whose provocations serve to exacerbate tensions.
- Nicole Noren as Christine: An unexpected voice of dissent who challenges the majority’s views, contributing to the film’s themes of diversity and conflict.
- Ashley Bianco as Naomi: A newcomer to the group whose presence and background starkly contrast with the established dynamics, culminating in the film’s climactic moments.
- Sara Moni as Anna: A character representing the disillusionment with the group’s original intent, shedding light on the myriad reasons for societal discord.
Review
“Soft & Quiet” succeeds in creating an unsettling atmosphere, employing a unique narrative technique that keeps the audience engaged whilst simultaneously anxious. The real-time format creates an immediacy that is almost claustrophobic, effectively mirroring the growing discomfort that arises within the group. Director Beth de Araújo’s skill in building tension, combined with an echo of improvisational dialogue, makes every word spoken significant, as each utterance drives the plot into darker territories.
From a cinematographic standpoint, the decision to shoot in a single location effectively traps both characters and viewers in an environment saturated with rising tensions. The close-up shots of the characters’ faces reveal shifting emotions that range from camaraderie to wild hostility, emphasising the rawness and volatility of human interaction in groups. The cinematography allows for an intimate yet unsettling examination of the characters’ evolving relationships, making the audience both observers and complicit in the moral complexities that transpire.
The acting performances deserve particular commendation. Carmen Squire leads with a nuanced portrayal of Emily, who starts as an earnest community member but is starkly confronted with the true nature of those she thought were allies. Diane Daugherty delivers a chilling performance as Linda, the embodiment of manipulative leadership that is both alluring and frightening. The ensemble cast each brings depth to their characters, highlighting the varying shades of complicity within their individual beliefs, ultimately creating a tapestry of societal discord that feels alarmingly familiar.
One of the most powerful aspects of “Soft & Quiet” is its ability to reflect contemporary social issues. The film fosters an uncomfortable resonance with real-world biases and prejudices, compelling viewers to question their perceptions and the societal structures around them. The stark realities of race relations and female dynamics in modern society are portrayed without sugar-coating, forcing audiences to confront the unsettling truths underlying human behaviour. The film does not lend itself to easy resolutions, leaving a lingering tension that follows viewers long after the credits roll.
Despite the film’s brilliance, there are moments where the plot’s pacing drags slightly, especially towards the midpoint where the thematic explorations stall, drawing out the dialogue at the expense of narrative momentum. Yet even these slower moments ultimately serve to build anticipation for the explosive climax that follows, making them a necessary part of the film’s progression.
The score, while subtle, adds a haunting layer to the film. The minimalistic approach to sound encourages the audience to absorb the dialogue and the psychological complexity at play without overwhelming the narrative with extraneous noise. The use of silence creates a tension that reminds everyone of the fragility of peace, further emphasising the film’s commentary on societal cohesion and disintegration.
Ultimately, “Soft & Quiet” is a thought-provoking piece of cinema that challenges viewers to reconsider their understanding of community, identity, and the things that divide us. It is a film that thrives on discomfort, addressing the uncomfortable truths that lurk beneath the surface of seemingly benign gatherings. The skilful direction, powerful performances, and compelling script come together to create a narrative that is not easily forgotten.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Soft & Quiet” is a powerful exploration of the complexities of human interaction within the context of societal tensions. It shines a light on the darker aspects of group dynamics and uses its chilling narrative to engage audiences in a discussion about bias and prejudice. While the pacing may occasionally falter, the overall execution results in a hauntingly resonant film that lingers in the mind long after viewing.
For an unflinching examination of the darker corners of community and the power of collective thought, “Soft & Quiet” is a must-see that challenges its viewers to reflect upon their own beliefs, pushing them towards an uncomfortable but necessary discourse.
Score: 8.5/10
