39/18
The WellPlayed by Ginny Vee
Chronology
An aspiring art restorer travels to a small Italian village to restore a medieval painting to its former glory. Little does she know that she is putting her life in danger against an evil curse and a monster born of myth and brutal pain. Lauren Lavera has said that she has only seen part of this film. Federico Zampaglione’s The Well is a chilling exploration of ancient curses and the darkness that lurks beneath the surface of seemingly idyllic settings.
What begins as a seemingly routine mission soon turns into a nightmare
The Italian filmmaker creates an unsettling atmosphere, layering the film in such dread that you’ll find yourself gripping the armrests in anticipation, even during its pitfalls. The film follows Lisa Grey, a young art restorer, as she is tasked with restoring a medieval painting in the quaint Italian village of Sambucci. As Lisa delves deeper into the painting’s history, she finds herself entangled in a web of malevolent forces and terrifying encounters. Among the incredible creatures crafted, one of the film’s greatest strengths lies in its atmospheric storytelling.
It’s an enchanting, eerie, and atmospheric gothic nightmare that lures you into a hypnotic state
Zampaglione’s direction is astute, easily creating a palpable sense of dread and unease throughout the film. The haunting music, combined with the film’s dark cinematography, immerses the viewer in a world of darkness and decay. While the film’s plot may seem familiar to fans of the horror genre, for the most part, The Well manages to offer a fresh take on the haunted house trope. The exploration of ancient curses and supernatural elements adds a layer of complexity that makes it all the more intriguing.
The performances in The Well are generally strong
Lauren LaVera delivers a compelling portrayal of Lisa, a woman caught between the beauty of art and the terrifying secrets it holds. The supporting cast also delivers solid performances, adding depth and believability to the film’s characters. However, The Well is not without its flaws. The pacing can be a little too slow in places, and some plot developments can feel predictable and slightly underplayed.
Personally, I would have liked more lore and scarier scares
Despite these minor flaws, The Well remains a chilling and unsettling cinematic experience. Its masterful direction, solid performances, and exploration of psychological horror make it a standout film in the genre. While it may not be a cinematic masterpiece, it is a well-crafted horror film that is well worth watching.
