The Quiet Ones (2014) – Movie Review
Synopsis:
Set in 1974, "The Quiet Ones" follows the unsettling experiences of a group of university students and their eccentric professor, Joseph Coupland (played by Jared Harris). Driven by the quest to prove that supernatural phenomena can be explained through scientific means, Coupland conducts an unorthodox experiment involving a troubled young woman named Jane Harper (Olivia Cooke). Jane is a tormented soul, allegedly possessed by a malevolent force, and her behaviour becomes increasingly erratic under Coupland’s methodical scrutiny.
Joined by students Brian (Sam Claflin), who serves as the reluctant cameraman, and fellow classmates Krissi (Erin Richards) and Mark (Rory Fleck-Byrne), the group takes Jane away from the confinement of a psychiatric hospital to an isolated countryside house. The setting—a dilapidated mansion—serves as both refuge and prison for the experiment. As Coupland deploys increasingly intrusive methods, Jane’s dark past begins to unravel, revealing secrets that lead to terrifying consequences.
The narrative interweaves themes of science versus superstition, the power dynamics between authority figures and their subjects, and the thin line between sanity and madness. The film unfolds as tensions rise, and what once seemed like a scientific exploration turns into a battle against a sinister force that threatens to consume the lives of everyone involved.
Actors and Characters:
- Jared Harris as Professor Joseph Coupland
- Olivia Cooke as Jane Harper
- Sam Claflin as Brian McNeil
- Erin Richards as Krissi
- Rory Fleck-Byrne as Mark
- Lindsay Duncan as the Interviewer
- Richard D. Grant as the Psychologist
Review:
“The Quiet Ones” presents a unique subversion of the typical horror genre, drawing viewers into a narrative that is fortified by a foundation of atmospheric tension and psychological unraveling. Directed by John Pogue, the film aims to capture the essence of 1970s horror whilst embedding deeper philosophical questions about science and belief. However, while it has the makings of an effective horror film, it ultimately falls short of its ambitious intent, resulting in a mixed bag.
One of the film’s strongest aspects is its commitment to establishing an eerie atmosphere. The cinematography, helmed by Anthony Dod Mantle, does a commendable job of enhancing the foreboding tone. The setting of the old manor, with its creaking doors, dark corridors, and oppressive silence, effectively creates an authentic backdrop for the unfolding terror. The house itself feels like a character, holding secrets and radiating an unsettling energy that seeps into the fabric of the story.
The casting shines, particularly with Jared Harris in the role of Professor Coupland. He infuses the character with a compelling mix of charisma and obsession, embodying the archetypal scientist who, blinded by his pursuit of knowledge, crosses ethical boundaries. Harris delivers a magnetic performance that keeps the audience captivated, even as his character’s moral compass becomes increasingly questionable. Likewise, Olivia Cooke’s portrayal of Jane is evocative—her gradual descent into despair is palpable, and she embodies the tragic essence of her character with emotional nuance.
Sam Claflin, as Brian, evokes the audience’s sympathy and confusion; he acts as the moral centre amidst the ethical depravity displayed by Coupland. The interplay between Claflin and Cooke contributes to some of the film’s more tender moments, allowing the audience to see the humanity in Jane’s plight. Supporting characters, such as Krissi and Mark, provide a necessary counterbalance but are often relegated to the background, which detracts from the film’s emotional weight when it encounters darker themes.
Despite its intriguing premise and strong initial setup, "The Quiet Ones" struggles to maintain momentum as the film progresses. The pacing falters in places, with crucial plot developments feeling rushed or muddled. After establishing compelling stakes within the first act, the film’s midsection drags, relying too heavily on traditional horror tropes and predictable jump scares. Consequently, the narrative suffers from an imbalance; it oscillates awkwardly between psychological explorations and external horror elements. The inclusion of various supernatural events has potential but often distracts from the film’s thematic undertones.
Furthermore, the screenplay, while ambitious in its exploration of the science versus the supernatural debate, occasionally falls prey to exposition-heavy dialogue that lacks subtlety. Coupland’s theoretical musings on possession and the mind could have been expressed more organically within the narrative, but instead, they feel forced and contrived. This detracts from the viewer’s immersion and dilutes the emotional impact of Jane’s plight, causing her tragic transformation to lose some of its poignancy.
The climax of the film aims for an explosive conclusion, but it unwittingly veers into melodrama, with its resolution feeling anticlimactic. While the film attempts a layered exploration of the ramifications of Coupland’s unchecked ambition, it neglects to adequately flesh out its central themes, leaving the viewer with more questions than answers. Additionally, the denouement, while attempting to tie the narrative threads together, feels disjointed and hastily constructed, undermining the emotional payoff that the film aspired to achieve.
In terms of production quality, "The Quiet Ones" deserves commendation. The soundtrack, composed by the seasoned musician, contains haunting melodies that add to the atmospheric tension. The meticulous attention to the film’s period-setting costumes, props, and decor further immerses the viewer in the 1970s aesthetic, enhancing the authenticity and overall viewing experience.
Overall, “The Quiet Ones” showcases flashes of brilliance, particularly in its character portrayals and atmospheric setup. However, the film struggles with pacing, expositional shortcomings, and the blending of its psychological elements with supernatural motifs. While it sets out to explore profound themes, its execution falters, leaving the audience with a sense of unfulfilled potential.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, “The Quiet Ones” is a film steeped in intrigue, with a riveting premise and strong performances, yet ultimately hampered by narrative flaws and pacing issues. Despite its shortcomings, the film offers glimpses of a compelling story and serves as a reminder of the thin confines that separate scientific inquiry from the dark unknown. For those seeking a horror film that ventures beyond the ordinary, “The Quiet Ones” may suffice, but for those in search of a polished masterpiece, this may fall short of expectations.
Score: 6.5/10
