[Review] Don't Tell A Soul(2021) {6/10}

Written and Directed by Alex McAulay in his directorial debut, the film stars Jack Dylan Grazer (Joey), Fionn Whitehead (Matt), Rainn Wilson (Dave Hamby / Randy Michael Sadler) and Mena Suvari (Carol).

The plot follows a security officer who falls down a hidden well while chasing two teenage brothers who stole more than $12,000. Desperate to get out, he soon tries to convince one of the siblings to set him free and save his life.

Despite an intriguing premise and committed performances, it lacks the character depth and moral complexity to maintain consistent suspense. The plotting, with all of its surprises and additional complications, takes over and we're left with nobody with whom to sympathize. This isn't a mere character study about the relationship between two very distinct people, though. It's also and increasingly a thriller, which keeps raising the complications and stakes to the point that these characters don't seem to be reacting to the situation at hand. They start to act in ways that seem more concerned with McAulay's desire to complicate and heighten the plot as much and as many times as possible. I applaud McAulay's efforts, but Don't Tell a Soul is at its best when it's simply having fun as a silly B-flick. Shut your brain off, enjoy and like with any guilty pleasure, don't tell a soul you liked it.

Don't Tell a Soul is now available on Digital and Blu-ray.