El páramo

'The Squad' is a Colombian psychological horror thriller that comes tantalisingly close to delivering the nasty thrills its story craves - but unfortunately comes up short.

It follows a team of soldiers sent to investigate a Colombian mountain base where all contact has been lost. The soldiers find themselves in a place of unholy intrigue: the dark and grimy interior is graffitied with vague warnings and smeared with fresh blood, while the foreboding sound design toys with our nerves. And a thick and pervasive mist prevents the exterior scenes from feeling safe, ensuring daylight is as cloyingly atmospheric as possible.

The characters are never given enough development to make you sympathise with their peril, however. It's a typical assembly of soldiers who show their argumentative side as much as camaraderie, but no one feels like a fleshed out individual worthy of supporting.

The leisurely pace may also test some viewers' patience, with the decidedly lacklustre finale disappointing considering the careful setup. But, overall, 'The Squad' is watchable enough for the majority of its runtime even if a second watch is not in the cards.

6/10