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A couple's dream crumbles after they move to the country to escape the madness of modern life. Their darkest fears are realized as they are terrorized by an unknown Watcher who claims his victims on the 3rd Night.
'3rd Night' takes place in the countryside of West Australia. It tells the story of Megan and Jonathan, a young couple who decide to buy an orchard surrounded by bush land in order to get away from the city life.
The film takes place over three nights. The first night is marred by the disappearance of their cat, Nook. But that is only the beginning of their problems because Meagan who is a bit worried about their choice of moving beings to suspect that someone or something is watching them. To make matters worse each day they find a note with a cryptic poem written on it. Things continue to get worse on day two and by the time day three arrives the couple's dream life quickly becomes their biggest fear.
'3rd Night' is a slow-moving horror/drama that is never in a hurry to reveal its secrets. The film marks the feature film debut of Writer/Director, Adam Graveley. Done on a very low budget Graveley takes his time fleshing out the story and developing the characters as well so the audience gets invested enough so they care about the them when the final act rolls around.
The film slowly builds on tension and suspense while maintaining a high level of dread and mystery. The young couple suspect that someone or something is watching them but are really unsure which while the audience is introduced to a man and a young boy living in the bush which they suspect is the culprit but a major twist around the 53 minute mark chances all of that even for the audience.
'3rd Night' relies on atmosphere, mood and the audience's attachment to the couple to drive the film before letting out all its mayhem during the final act. I do not think this is going to be for everyone simply because it is a slow moving film. I suspect some will get bored with it before it has a chance to put everything together but I encourage everyone to stick with it because it pays off in the end with several creepy and disturbing scenes. One right at the end will have you awake the entire night.
There is a lot to like about the film including the direction and location which sets the mood right from the start. Another thing that impressed me was the cast, everyone in the film did a fine job but the film's two leads, Jesse McGinn and Robert Hartburn impressed me the most. Those two were definitely the driving force and both had great chemistry tonight. I must also mention Writer/Director, Adam Graveley. I was very impressed with story telling and direction and even more so knowing it was his feature film debut. He certainly has a feel for horror and I cannot wait to see what he comes up with next.
'3rd Night' is one of those films that gets in your head and under skin right from the start and it stays there the entire time and long after it is over. It is a creepy film that engages the audience and it gets you thinking. If you like a horror film that challenges you then be sure to check this out when it comes to DVD October 09, 2018.
Released by Monarch Home Entertainment
**** Out Of *****