Lore

Anthology films can be a mixed bag, often challenging viewers to find a story that really engages them. Lore, the new anthology film directed by James Bushe, Patrick Michael Ryder and Greig Johnson, meets this challenge with a varied selection of stories spanning the horror genre. The film opens with a group of friends going camping under the guidance of the enigmatic Richard Brake. As night sets in, Brake's character encourages the group to share their scariest stories, paving the way for an array of chilling, twisted tales.

One of the most striking segments is Shadows, directed by James Bushe. The story follows a man on the run from dangerous individuals, who takes refuge in an abandoned warehouse. What unfolds is a captivating mix of action and horror, with a clever twist that adds depth to the narrative. This segment sets the tone for what's to come and immediately draws the audience into the film's world.

The anthology continues with The Hidden Woman, directed by Patrick Michael Ryder, which takes up the classic haunted house theme. A mother and son move into a new house and find themselves embroiled in a sinister story that haunts the house. While adhering to traditional horror elements, Ryder manages to infuse the story with well-executed scares that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

Cross Your Heart, by Greig Johnson, takes a bold step away from the supernatural with a dark tale of a couple's ill-fated attempt at swinging. With a wickedly twisted plot, this segment offers a visceral experience that plays on psychological horror and unexpected twists.

The final story, The Keychain Man, brings a dose of black comedy to the anthology. As the boundaries between horror and humor blur, the story takes place in a movie theater during a late-night screening. The resulting chaos and violence provide an entertaining conclusion to the anthology.

Despite the diversity of tones and styles, Lore maintains a coherent look and feel throughout, thanks to Scott Coulter's consistent cinematography. Each segment is well-crafted and stands on its own, contributing to the anthology's overall impact. While not every segment will resonate with every viewer, the diversity of the anthology's selection ensures that most audience members will find something to enjoy.

Lore manages to capture the essence of life around a campfire with friends, sharing scary stories. The film's ability to offer both classic horror elements and unexpected narrative twists makes it an interesting addition to the anthology genre. As the stories unfold, Lore reminds us that storytelling is a never-ending journey, and this film takes us into a world of shadows, spirits and suspense.

Lore
Directed by James Bushe, Patrick Michael Ryder, Greig Johnson
Produced by Adam Bouabda
Written by Patrick Michael Ryder, Christine Barber-Ryder, James Bushe  
Starring Andrew Lee Potts, Bill Fellows, Katie Sheridan, Steven Blades, Rufus Hound, Samantha Neale, Sally Collett, Jennifer K Preston, Daniel-John Williams, Alana Wallace, Jacob Anderton, Christopher Mulvin, Sammy T. Dobson, Dean Bone, Greig Johnson, Miles Mitchell, Sarah Lewis Obuba, Davey Hopper, Jordaine Lincoln, Theo Preston, Finbar Healy
Music by Benjamin Symons
Cinematography : Scott Coulter
Running time : 87 minutes

Viewed August 13, 2023 (Frightfest press screener)

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