Polterheist (2018)
Director: David Gilbank,
Writers: David Gilbank, Gemma Head, Paul Renhard
Stars: Jo Mousley, Sid Akbar Ali, Jamie Cymbal, Pushpinder Chani, Kevin Curtin
Two gangsters are given 72 hours to discover the whereabouts of a stash of drug money stolen by their boss. There’s only one problem…they just murdered him. Frantic to find the cash, the hapless criminals kidnap a psychic medium and force her to contact the dead gang boss. Unfortunately for them, they only succeed in unleashing an evil spirit bent on revenge.
Polterheist is a feature debut from director and co-writer David Gilbank, which has been adapted from the original short film of the same name. Primarily a dark gangster comedy which portrays a familiar story, what really makes Polterheist stand out is the injection of a supernatural horror twist gives the film a fresh, unique and original feel.
With the quality of the script and the interweaving stories it could easily have been delivered as a modern gangster film. Without the horror elements which give the film a more fictitious feel, there is a gritty realism to the normal event -, especially when it comes to the violence. The brilliant script from co-writers David Gilbank, Gemma Head, Paul Renhard naturally develops the personalities of the characters. Whether it be during the graphic moments of violence, hilarious interactions between the characters or in some cases a clever mixture of both. The clever execution of the script also manages to engage with the audience by reflecting on the frustrations of everyday situations, whether it be missing pens or car park machines, even though it takes place in a more volatile and violent scenario than most of us are used to.
With the horror elements it would have been easy to have incorporated them just for jump scares or to add a more tongue and cheek style humour, but Polterheist uses the horror brilliantly to add a further depth to the story. Creating an emotional connection between the characters that you wouldn’t normally expect. There are still some well execute horror moments which includes the occasional glimpse at some of the deceased and a watered-down homage of the exorcist. However, as effective these scenes are it is the connection between Boxy’s and Tariq with the now deceased Frank where the supernatural elements are utilised, as it creates a unique take on the scene. Whether it be the jovial banter in the car where past events are temperately disregarded in the moment, or a more emotional card scene where they begin to reflect on the past and the current situation.
The film has some exceptional performances which includes Jamie Cymbal who is the heart of the film as the simple minded but well meaning (for a street wise gangster) Boxy – who despite his good intentions is easily led. Jamie plays the part brilliantly to get the audience on side. Even when we see a darker side to his character there is still that vulnerability that makes you empathise with him, attributing it more tothe situation and the influence of those around him.
Boxy’s partner in crime Tariq played by Sid Akbar Ali, is a more complex character. Despite a likeability which comes from his rapport with Boxy, there is still an uncertainty regarding his character due to his actions in which he is vilified and his self-interest which raises the issue of trust. Despite it all you still find yourself supporting Tariq even though he may not be a character you would normally want to see benefit from the situation. Yet in the crime world in which they are situated he is an anti-hero compared to Uday and you feel that perhaps Boxy couldn’t pull it off on his own.
When it comes to making an impact Pushpinder Chani is hard to forget with his portrayal of the volatile Uday. Stealing every scene with his energy and a cocky arrogance which makes his character as memorable as he is unlikable. Although with is temper and love for adapted contact sports such as cricket, you wouldn’t want to say that to his face.
The most impressive performance in the film however comes from Jo Mousley, who delivers a remarkable transformation from the timid Alice to the now deceased Frank – as her body is used a vessel to bring him back. It is not just the change in persona, but the execution with her mannerisms and aggressive authority in her voice which makes you believe that she really is Frank. As she becomes the character you instantly disregard her size and female form, suddenly she is this hardened ruthless gangster that you wouldn’t want to cross.
It is no surprise that Poltergeist has already gained a cult following from its run on the festival circuit. It was one of my favourite films when it played at Horror-on-Sea in January and Jo Mousley was easily my favourite performance of the festival. Polterheist is an impressive debut film from David Gilbank which delivers a brilliantly funny, original and refreshing take on a traditional gangster story, offering a unique cross over of genres which makes it stands out on its own.
Polterheist is available to buy now Amazon Prime or from the website http://www.tribal.film/polterheist/
Published in various websites, Philip is a reviewer who is best known for his interviews and media coverage of independent projects including; films, books, theatre and live events. Always on the lookout for something different to cover!
