Don’t Leave Home is a beautifully shot horror drama, most of which was shot on location in Ireland. Anna Margaret Hollyman’s performance as Melanie Thomas is mumbly and natural next to Lalor Roddy’s achingly melancholic portrayal of former priest Alistair Burke. Certain aspects of the film feel slightly half-cooked (the score hits awkwardly in some places to imply suspense when little is happening), but the lush verdancy of the Irish countryside and Wes Anderson-esque framing bring things back to center (literally). The ending provides enough closure to satisfy the audience but still pique their interest in writer/director Michael Tully and his future works.
This was screened as part of the Overlook Film Festival 2018
