The early 17th century. Innocent young Persephone (a fine and sympathetic performance by the lovely Hannah Atherton) is put on trial for her life over a false accusation of practicing witchcraft. The Reverend Mother (a strong portrayal by Clare Higgins of "Hellraiser" fame) intervenes and places Persephone in a secluded priory where Persephone winds up facing a greater evil.
Director/co-writer Paul Hyett relates the familiar, but still enjoyable and engrossing story at a steady pace, offers a flavorsome evocation of the period setting, ably crafts a creepy gloom-doom atmosphere, maintains a tough grim tone throughout, and delivers a handy helping of gore at the exciting climax. Moreover, there are sturdy supporting contributions from Rosie Day as the fragile Sister Emeline, Ania Marson as the no-nonsense Sister Elizabeth, and Sian Breckin as the helpful Sister Lucilla. Michael Ironside has a neat small role as a strict magistrate. Only some dodgy CGI effects leaves something to be desired. A worthy fright film.
Director/co-writer Paul Hyett relates the familiar, but still enjoyable and engrossing story at a steady pace, offers a flavorsome evocation of the period setting, ably crafts a creepy gloom-doom atmosphere, maintains a tough grim tone throughout, and delivers a handy helping of gore at the exciting climax. Moreover, there are sturdy supporting contributions from Rosie Day as the fragile Sister Emeline, Ania Marson as the no-nonsense Sister Elizabeth, and Sian Breckin as the helpful Sister Lucilla. Michael Ironside has a neat small role as a strict magistrate. Only some dodgy CGI effects leaves something to be desired. A worthy fright film.