Watch Verve

Verve is a 2016 British independent thriller film directed by the relatively young and unknown filmmaker, Jason Rouse. The movie stars rising talents such as Ella Blackburn, Katherine Harding, Owen Carter, and Elliot Bevan. The plot of Verve revolves around two friends, Riley (Ella Blackburn) and Chris (Owen Carter), who are struggling to fit in with the rest of their friends due to their introverted personalities. On a night out, the two friends come across a mysterious man named Max (Elliot Bevan), who invites them to an isolated location for an exciting adventure.

At first, the adventure seems like fun, as Max leads the trio through a series of thrilling and dangerous stunts. However, as the night wears on, the friends begin to realize that Max may have a darker agenda. When they wake up the next morning, they find that Max has gone missing, and things take a disturbing turn as they find themselves fighting for their survival.

What really sets Verve apart from other thrillers is the way in which it deals with the delicate issue of mental illness. Throughout the movie, we see the harrowing effects of mental illness on both the victims and their loved ones. We get a sense of the endless internal struggles that individuals with mental health issues go through on a daily basis.

The film's portrayal of mental illness is raw and unflinching, and it serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating effects that untreated mental health issues can have. Unlike other thrillers where mental illness is used as a cheap plot device, Verve shines a spotlight on the importance of looking after one's mental health and seeking professional help when needed.

Another standout aspect of Verve is its visuals, which are truly breathtaking. The movie was shot on location in the beautiful and rugged terrain of the Lake District, which serves as an epic backdrop for the film's action-packed scenes. The high-octane stunts that the characters engage in are truly thrilling to watch, and the film's use of aerial drones adds a unique and cinematic quality to the visuals.

The acting in Verve is also top-notch, with all of the lead characters turning in solid performances. Ella Blackburn shines as the film's protagonist, giving a nuanced and heartfelt portrayal of her character's struggles with mental illness. Owen Carter delivers a solid performance as the film's male lead, Chris, bringing a sense of vulnerability and authenticity to his character.

The real standout of the film, however, is Elliot Bevan, who gives a truly chilling performance as Max. Bevan's portrayal of Max is nuanced and complex, and he manages to bring an unsettling edge to the character that keeps the audience on edge throughout the film.

Overall, Verve is a captivating and powerful thriller that tackles important issues with sensitivity and nuance. It is a testament to the power of independent cinema and features a talented cast and crew who have come together to create something truly special. If you are a fan of thought-provoking thrillers with a strong message, Verve is definitely worth checking out.