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
9. Clive Standen - Patient Zero (2018)
In this post-apocalyptic horror-thriller, Clive Standen plays a medical researcher, Dr. Morgan, who is attempting to find a cure for a global pandemic that has turned most of humanity into violent, zombie-like creatures. Clive’s performance showcases his talent for intense and dramatic roles. As the movie delves into themes of survival, isolation, and the possibility of hope in a world that appears devoid of it, Clive’s desperate portrayal heightens the tension and suspense in a narrative that may feel somewhat familiar in our post-COVID reality. Photo: IMDb
10. Sam Neill - Event Horizon (1997)
‘Event Horizon’ is known for its graphic and disturbing imagery, as well as its exploration of themes related to Hell and the supernatural. Sam Neill’s character, Dr. Weir, is a brilliant physicist who designed the experimental spacecraft, the Event Horizon, which disappeared into a black hole before mysteriously reappearing. Sam’s performance in the film is notable for its depth and intensity. He effectively conveys the character’s gradual descent into madness as he grapples with the disturbing, horrifying and terrifying phenomena unfolding aboard the ship, perfectly capturing the psychological and emotional toll faced amidst the malevolent forces at play. It’s Sam’s role and performance that plays a significant part of what makes the film memorable, effectively contributing to the unsettling and chilling atmosphere, making it a notable entry in the science fiction horror genre. Photo: IMDb
11. Michael Smiley - Kill List (2011)
Known for its intense and unsettling narrative, Michael Smiley’s role as Gal in this psychological horror-thriller film adds a layer of mystery to the series of contract killings taken on. As Michael’s character becomes more integral to the unsettling events unfolding, his performance stands out for its intricate nature and the pervasive sense of disquiet it imparts. Wrapped in an air of uncertainty, Michael enriches the narrative as it takes unanticipated and spine-chilling twists, consistently holding the audience’s attention, and leaving them in dread and suspense throughout the film. Photo: IMDb