The Awakening (2011)

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  TheMovieDiorama

  6 / 10

  The Awakening is an old school ghost story. Set in 1921, a highly educated woman is set to prove that the afterlife does not exist but is presented with a ghost hunt that might change her beliefs. This is a well done, classy ghost story with some good performances all round. The underrated Rebecca Hall portrays a complex character who has locked her emotions away. Dominic West and Imelda Staunton are also good, much like the rest of the British cast. I thought the camerawork was clean with some nice slow panning motions to keep viewers on edge. The setting is atmospheric and there are some creepy moments. Don't go into this thinking that it's a horror film, no no no. It chooses to be a drama with the ghost story on the side, which may or may not suit you. As the film progresses, it tries to be clever and have a shocking twist but unfortunately it loses its way...the story is smarter than that which is a shame. It does include some unnecessary jump scares which detracts from the story and the effects on the ghost itself were slightly bland (in fairness, low budget...but still). This isn't your standard American horror film, this focusses on a grief stricken character but unfortunately the narrative does lose its way. Still worthy of a watch!

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