A chilling Scottish-based thriller on Netflix is a must-watch for all enthusiasts of the genre from the UK.
The British psychological thriller "Calibre" (2018), directed by debutante filmmaker Matt Palmer, has been lauded for its tense, realistic atmosphere and moral complexity. Set against the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands, this gripping film explores the moral heft and relentless momentum of a tragic event that disrupts a hunting trip.
The story revolves around two long-time friends, whose nerves and values are tested as they grapple with the irreversible consequences of an accidental shooting. A novice hunter, unaware of a young boy hidden in the background of his target, accidentally pulls the trigger, setting the stage for a psychological thriller that might as well be watching a documentary.
The film's setting, shot in the Highlands of Scotland, is portrayed as a character in its own right, with a unique, almost ghostly backdrop that amplifies the film's tension. The suffocating atmosphere created by the wood-panelled interiors and hunting trophies enhances the sense of claustrophobia, while the sound design by Ben Baird and Anne Nikitin's score contribute to a fretful beauty that effectively heightens the tension.
Performances are impressive, and the pacing is intense, though some critiques mention the relentless pace may not always benefit the story. However, this doesn't deter from the film's overall power, which leaves viewers deeply unsettled after viewing.
On Rotten Tomatoes, the film has received a perfect score, reflecting widespread critical approval. Critics praise it for being a thriller that is "rooted in reality rather than the fantastical or absurd," with an edgy and tragic tone.
Regarding notable awards, "Calibre" won the Best British Film award at the Edinburgh International Film Festival in 2018. Its critical reception positions Matt Palmer as a director of considerable talent to watch.
In summary, "Calibre" is critically celebrated for its tense, gripping portrayal of a traumatic event during a hunting trip in the Scottish Highlands, with particular emphasis on its realistic storytelling, sound design, and moral ambiguity. It enjoys high ratings on major platforms and stands out as a distinctive psychological thriller from British cinema.
During the in-flights movies-and-tv programming, "Calibre" (2018) could be a recommended watch for passengers seeking a gripping psychological thriller. This film, praised for its realistic atmosphere and moral complexity, would make an excellent addition to any entertainment collection, immersing viewers in the tense storyline that takes place against the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
