Watch Byzantium Story

Byzantium is a 2012 British horror-thriller film directed by Neil Jordan and starring Saoirse Ronan, Gemma Arterton, Caleb Landry Jones, and Sam Riley. Ken Davis does not appear in the film. The story revolves around two mysterious women, Clara and Eleanor, played by Arterton and Ronan respectively. They are on the run and seeking refuge in a small coastal village. Clara is a seductive woman who is resourceful and very guarded, while Eleanor, her daughter, is introspective and sensitive. As they settle into their new location, they find themselves at odds with the other residents.

As the story progresses, it is revealed that Clara and Eleanor are actually vampires who have been living for centuries. Eleanor is hesitant to embrace her vampiric nature, while Clara revels in it. They are being pursued by a mysterious organization called the Brotherhood, which seeks to destroy them due to their immortality.

The film explores many themes, such as mother-daughter relationships, sibling rivalry, and the morality of immortality. The relationship between Clara and Eleanor is the heart of the story, as they navigate their complicated dynamic and try to stay alive in a world that has turned against them.

The film is set against the backdrop of the bleak and isolated coastal town, which adds to the overall sense of dread and isolation. Jordan has a great eye for visuals and uses the location to his advantage, creating a dark and eerie atmosphere.

One of the strengths of Byzantium is its strong female characters. Arterton's Clara is a commanding presence onscreen, while Ronan's Eleanor is a more nuanced character, struggling with her identity and her place in the world. The two actresses have great chemistry together, making their relationship all the more complex and engaging.

The supporting cast is also strong. Caleb Landry Jones plays a troubled young man who becomes entangled with Eleanor, while Sam Riley plays a mysterious man who seems to have a connection to the Brotherhood. Both actors bring depth to their roles and add to the overall atmosphere of the film.

Byzantium is a slow-burn horror film that takes its time to build tension and create a sense of unease. It is not a film that relies on jump scares or gore, but rather on atmosphere and character development. It is a film that rewards patience, as the story becomes more engrossing as it progresses.

Overall, Byzantium is an engaging and thought-provoking film that explores many themes and ideas. The strong performances and atmospheric setting make it a standout in the horror genre.