In this spine-tingling feature, we’ll delve into 11 times when some of Northern Ireland’s finest have us on the edge of our seats, hearts racing, and pulses quickening.
. Scary movies
There’s something about the Northern Irish stars in the horror genre that keeps us hiding behind the sofa. Photo: Phillip Goldsberry on Unsplash
. Kenneth Branagh - Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein (1994)
In what is regarded as the most faithful adaptation of the classic novel ‘Frankenstein’, Kenneth Branagh delivered a remarkable performance as he took on the role of Victor Frankenstein, the scientist responsible for bringing the iconic monster to life. With the film’s most explicitly terrifying moments remaining largely shrouded in darkness, this choice lends the narrative a mystical essence, emphasising that the unseen is much more frightening than the seen. Kenneth’s portrayal is characterised by his skill in depicting Victor’s spiral into madness and fixation. His extensive emotional range and unwavering commitment to the role transforms Victor Frankenstein into a multi-faceted and intricate character that raises the question: who is the real monster, the true villain? Photo: IMDb
. Conleth Hill - The Isle (2019)
While ‘The Isle’ may not fit neatly into the horror genre, its growing sense of menace throughout the movie eventually escalates to panic, leaving the characters largely uncertain about their fears. The location of the movie itself exudes an isolating atmosphere that can turn hostile, brimming with haunting sounds; and the story unfolds with a small cast of characters that offer a traditionally eerie narrative. Conleth Hill’s character, Douglas, adds to the suspense with his seemingly friendly yet warning-filled demeanour, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats from the get go. Photo: watch.plex.tv
. Laura Donnelly - Dread (2009)
Known within the horror genre for its heart-pounding intensity, ‘Dread’ revolves around a group of university students conducting a psychological experiment on fear as part of a documentary project. However, as they delve deeper into the project, their own deep-seated fears and personal traumas are revealed, leading to a descent into what can only be described a terror, madness, and psychological cruelty. Although Laura Donnely’s character, Abby, isn’t the primary focus of the film, her performance adds to the prevailing sense of psychological tension and dread. ‘Dread’ delves into themes of fear, trauma, and the more unsettling aspects of human psychology, and Laura’s portrayal played a crucial role in conveying these themes within th film’s narrative, and shaping the movie’s overall atmosphere and impact. Photo: IMDb
. Stephen Rea - Interview With The Vampire (1994)
In ‘Interview With The Vampire’ the film diverges from traditional vampire tales by focusing on complex, morally conflicted characters. It blends psychological horror with a Gothic ambience and explores themes of immortality, morality, and the isolation nature of eternal life; bringing a very real, human-like horror to the screen. While Stephen Rea’s role may be smaller, his portrayal of Santiago leaves a lasting impression as he delivers a mesmerising and genuinely sinister theatrical performance. Photo: IMDb
5. Liam Neeson - After.Life (2009)
Liam Neeson delivers a noteworthy performance in ‘After. Life’ as lead Eliot Duncan, a funeral director who says he has the ability to communicate with the deceased. Liam brings an eerie and unsettling presence to the character, remaining cool and distant while working with the bodies he claims to hear the voices of. As the film explores themes of life, death, and what comes next, Liam’s skill in preserving layers of ambiguity, authenticity, uncertainty and suspense underscores his acting prowess. Photo: IMDb
6. Valene Kane - The Hoarder (2015)
Despite ‘The Hoarder’ not being as well-known as some other horror films, Valene Kane’s portrayal as Willow, one of the characters who becomes trapped in a storage facility overnight, unaware they aren’t alone, was essential in the movie’s suspense and tension from the onset. Valene showcases her talent and ability to engage audiences in a tense and mysterious atmosphere, adding to the sense of fear and unease the film encapsulates as the cast confronts the sinister forces at hand. Photo: IMDb
7. Ciarán Hinds - The Woman In Black (2012)
Although Ciarán Hinds plays a supporting role in the 2012 ‘The Woman In Black’, his character, Samuel Daily, is one of the few who attempts to help the lead Arthur Kipps as he investigates the mysterious and paranormal. Known for his strong acting abilities, Ciarán’s performance as Samuel is no exception. Bringing depth and authenticity to the role, Ciarán is fundamental to conveying a mix of scepticism, concern, and fear as the supernatural events unfold, contributing to the overall atmosphere of tension and dread throughout the movie. Photo: IMDb
8. Jamie Dornan - Synchronic (2019)
‘Synchronic’ is known for its blend of science fiction, horror, and psychological thriller elements, and Jamie Dornan’s performance plays a crucial role in bringing these aspects to life on screen. Jamie’s character, Dennis Dannelly, is an EMT drawn into a perplexing and mind-bending time-travel phenomenon. His performance stands out for its emotional depth, effectively portraying a mix of confusion, fear, and unwavering determination in the face of unsettling events. Photo: IMDb