Plot – A man returns from the military in search of his lost sister, who mysteriously went missing around the time of a strange traditional festival called The Droving.
Director – George Popov
Starring – Daniel Oldroyd, Suzie Frances Garton, Amy Tyger
Genre – Mystery | Crime | Thriller
Released – 2020
If you liked – Midsommar, Apostle, The Lodge
During the lockdown, I have taken the time to delve deep into the lesser-known films available on various streaming services in the search for those hidden gems that once in a while you can come across, which is where I came across The Droving directed by George Popov.
An admirable little horror film, that reminds me in a lot of ways of the classic Wickerman in the way it uses little-known British folk mythology to create an ominous vibe that intertwines with a metropolitan fear of rural small-town life and traditions.
From the first shot of a man standing on the pier to the final close-up in the cave. The Lake District is wonderfully represented on-screen with the use of some stunning cinematography. Drawing the viewer in with a false sense of peacefulness before ramping up the tension in a way that’s reminiscent of Hot Fuzz or The Borderlands.
Daniel Oldroyd gives an excellent performance as Martin, with his character growing and developing all the way through to the final scene. Helped with some unique writing and a collection of suspenseful performances by the supporting cast.
Overall, this is a thrilling little film, with beautiful imagery, that despite the low budget successfully manages to delve into the dark aspects of human nature and provide more than one twist along the way.
Roses Have Thoughts 