‘Still waters run deep’ rings true in this carefully constructed cross between horror and social drama. In her feature debut, director Rose Glass gradually uncovers the storm that is raging beneath the mousy exterior of young nurse Maud. She has been appointed private nurse to Amanda, a former dancer suffering from an incurable disease, whose Gothic villa looks out from a hilltop over a small British resort. Pious Maud has soon not only discharged her physical duties, but also put herself forward as the saviour of Amanda’s soul – whether Amanda likes it or not.
The two actresses really sink their teeth into their leading roles. Jennifer Ehle is stunning as Amanda, clinging on to her wild artistic lifestyle in spite of her condition. But the spotlight is reserved for Morfydd Clark, who announces her arrival as the timid, god-fearing Maud. It soon turns out her devotion is a fragile mask for her own traumas.
Film details
- Country of production
- United Kingdom
- Year
- 2019
- Festival edition
- IFFR 2020
- Length
- 83'
- Medium/Format
- DCP
