Watch Freehold

Freehold is a 2017 British thriller film directed by Dominic Bridges. The film stars Kola Bokinni as Hussein, a Nigerian immigrant living in London and Mandeep Dhillon as Olive, a British estate agent. Javier Botet appears briefly in the film as their landlord. The film begins with Olive showing a flat to a potential tenant, Hussein. Olive likes Hussein and decides to rent the flat to him. Everything seems good until the next day, when Olive returns to the flat to find Hussein still there. He claims that the contract he signed gives him the right to stay in the flat for as long as he wants and he refuses to leave. Olive tries to get the police involved, but they are unable to help as Hussein has a legal right to stay in the flat.

What follows is a tense game of cat and mouse between Olive and Hussein, as they try to outsmart each other and gain control over the situation. Olive is desperate to get Hussein out of the flat, while Hussein seems to have no intention of leaving. As the days go by, Olive's frustration and fear increase, and she begins to lose control of her own life.

The film explores themes of power, control, and immigration. Hussein's situation is a reflection of the struggles faced by many immigrants in the UK who find themselves stuck in limbo due to legal loopholes. Olive's helplessness highlights the powerlessness of those who operate within a bureaucratic system that often fails to protect them.

The film is shot almost entirely within the confines of the flat, which adds to the claustrophobic and oppressive atmosphere. The minimalist set design and cinematography create a sense of unease that builds as the film progresses.

The performances by Bokinni and Dhillon are excellent. Bokinni's portrayal of Hussein is both menacing and sympathetic. He manages to make the character likable despite his questionable actions. Dhillon's performance is equally strong, and she conveys Olive's desperation and fear with authenticity.

The film's sound design is also worth noting. The use of silence and ambient noise heightens the tension and adds to the unsettling atmosphere of the film.

Overall, Freehold is a thought-provoking and intense thriller that explores timely themes. The film's limited setting and strong performances make it a gripping watch.