The Shimian

Aptly, not much sleeping happens in "The Sleepless Forest", where most of "The Shimian" (2022) takes place.

There are a lot of great things to say about this film. My favourite thing? The music and sound. It lifts you when it needs to and lulls to pacify seamlessly. I have some new bands I need to look up.

The cinematography is equally SICK. There are so many more breathtaking scenes than the first one shown here.

I wasn't focused much at all on The Shimian itself. (sorry ya'll) That is because this is a character driven film where the interpersonal relationships and conflicts are truly the focus. The acting and dialogue for these evolving relationships are relatable and emotion filled.

There are some "OMG!", jaw dropping moments and scary beastie action for sure, no worries about that.

I really enjoyed this. I think you will too if you decide to give it a chance. On @tubi now!

Very well written film that had me laughing, emotional and jumping.

Just as you're enjoying the relatable family comedy you'll soon be on the edge of seat with twists and turns throughout.

There is something for everyone in this film. One I could watch over and over again. Acting was fantastic, characters well placed.

The character of the Shimian was full of mystery and left me wanting more. Costume was amazing.

The family dynamics are easy to relate to either for yourself or a family you know, this has you drawn in from the start.

Soundtrack was also amazing and hope to see it released following the movie.

Suspenseful, gripping and full of talent local to the west midlands. The shimian isn't handed to you on a plate and that creates such an atmosphere. The family unit draws you in and it makes you so much more frightened for their safety. There are some laughs, which keep you a part of that family unit and lower your guard just in time to force it back up again!

The soundtrack was great, not just the actual songs being played but also the theatrical stuff that made the atmosphere all the more heavy.

You notice even more the second time and I'm looking forward to the next film from these folks! Enjoy folks :)

The Shimian gives us a story of a family which is very relatable to modern audiences before serving up the screaming, blood, guts and usual horror elements later.

The first 30 minutes or so could appear a slow burner to some, but the time is used to build characters we care about (something I find lacking in most modern horror films). But during this time, there are a few scary moments to keep us on our toes and some genuine funny moments between the family.

Tensions within the family start to build as creepy events take place and we're put into their shoes wondering "What is a Shimian?". This is a question we're drip fed the answer to throughout the course of the movie, keeping that mystery and making us glued to the screen to find out more.

Visually The Shimian is a tale of two halves. Scenes in the woods are bright with bold colours and when things take a turn for the worst and the family end up in the abandoned manor house, the movie turns dark.

The soundtrack is one of the films highlights, with perfectly placed themes that draw the right emotion suitable to the scene.

The acting is top notch and although none of the cast are major stars (yet), they hold the film together with very believable performances.

Overall this is horror movie that is creepy, sometimes weird but ultimately touches your heart, a heart that maybe ripped out if you ever come across a Shimian.

This independent horror movie ticks all the boxes. Comedy, heartfelt moments and pure terror.

I was fortunate to have seen the Shimian on the big screen and wasn't disappointed. I laughed, had a lump in my throat and jumped out of my seat several times..

The acting was superb and the family dynamic was spot on.. While you don't get to see the Shimian much in the film, The suspense is gripping.

The music in the film adds to the suspense and really fits..

There's also a special treat for the ladies at the end when the two walkers were obviously very cold!

Well worth a watch, will definitely watch again.