This slow burning drama from Joe Lawlor and Christine Molloy has waited an age for a release slot after its premiere at the Edinburgh Film Festival.
Helen (PG)
Dirs: Joe Lawlor, Christine Molloy
With: Annie Townsend, Dennis Jobling
***
This slow burning drama from Joe Lawlor and Christine Molloy has waited an age for a release slot after its premiere at the Edinburgh Film Festival. It's a difficult film to pin down, being an almost dreamlike rendering of what happens after a horrific event - the disappearance of a young woman. The story begins with the police investigation getting under way and the filming of a Crimewatch type re-enactment of the teenager's last known movements.
Helen (Annie Townsend), who lives in the care of the local authority, is chosen to play the part because of her resemblance to the missing youngster. Tiny, shy, but with a core of steel, Helen plays her part in the investigation and more, slowly finding herself drawn into the world of the girl's grieving parents.
Annie Townsend is superb in the leading role. Though given a bare amount of dialogue, she makes Helen a commanding, haunting presence. Most of the actors were absolute beginners, which gives the picture a power and quiet glory all of its own.
Glasgow Film Theatre, June 8-10
