"Mirrors are not what they used to be." This line from Penitent (2017) captures well the essence of the film. Mirrors show us who we are or maybe even who we want to be but what happens to people if they don't like the reflection they see? If they can't forgive themselves or if they are bullied and discarded by society? Then the reflection we see starts to change and it can be hard to live with and accept that reflection.
Penitent is filmed in a documentary style realism. Even though it is made in the tradition of English realism (ala Ken Loach) it has the same rawness and bleakness as many of the early films by Rainer Werner Fassbinder.
The film is written by Michael Linehan who also plays the lead. He is an absolute pleasure to watch on screen. A true natural talent!
This is an impressive feature film debut from director Brian Stynes. It dares to take its time, and focus on characters, feelings and atmosphere, instead of chasing a traditional plot line. Something few directors dare to do these days.
A dark underground film with a brilliant lead!
