After being trapped in their tent by a deadly snake, a couple must fight for survival whilst also battling with the consequences of a relationship shattering revelation.
Written and directed by Amanda Evans, Serpent is a tense and intimate thriller that takes a known concept and creates something rather unique. Led by strong performances from Gwynneth and Adam (Sarah Dumont and Tom Ainsley respectively), the story starts off slow but as soon as the secret is revealed and our antagonist – the snake – makes his grand appearance, the film becomes something different entirely.
The way that the camera is used whilst inside the tent forcefully pulls the audience inside the camping structure and does not let you go just as if you were in the grasp of a snake. The snake itself is a commendable blend of CGI with a real-life reptile. Whether you are afraid of snakes or not, this entire second and third act of the film with have you on the edge of your seat.
However, the major downfall with Serpent is the dialogue. Unfortunately, it rarely feels natural, especially in our opening segment in which our main characters are conversing before heading off on an expedition. Luckily, this negative is swept under a rock with the film’s powerful second half.
Whereas the ultimate outcome of the story is slightly predictable, Evans manages to take the audience on a wild ride of a journey with some wonderful camerawork and the genius idea of predominantly using a real snake in the tent, which creates a real sense of tension and dread.
SERPENT / CERT: 12 / DIRECTOR & SCREENPLAY: AMANDA EVANS / TOM AINSLEY, SARAH DUMONT / RELEASE DATE: OCTOBER 15TH
