'False Witness' Film Review 2nd Draft- Candice Tyson

Imogen Salmon, Mae Webb, Candice Tyson and Charlotte Hudson direct their second thriller film together. Having a crew of four directors, it was like having too many cooks, a recipe for disaster. With a vast array of opinions and perspectives combined together, the final product could have been catastrophic, hence why leading Hollywood bosses tend not to follow this path. However, after the group transformed using four conflicting point of views, to construct a positive outcome rather than a negative with the success of title sequence Perception, many weren’t concerned.

The main actors Phoebe Richardson and Megan Harman starred in their debut film as newcomers; we acquired high expectations due to comparison with Gabriella Martorana, previously giving a strong lead role in Perception. Comment on acting

Who would have thought the ‘green-eyed monster’ could lead to such dire events. The spine-tingling thriller False Witness is a short film based on the psychological and physical effects of bullying, through words and actions, recounted through the eyes of an adolescent. The statement ‘keep your friends close and your enemy’s closer’ couldn’t be more appropriate as the film recounts the process of a deteriorating relationship of two teenagers. 

Insight into protagonist Rebecca’s mind reveals the depth of deception, immorality and hostility of this ‘false witness’.  Revealing one of the many flaws in the justice system, where insufficient evidence can result in an unjust aftermath. This film highlights how lies facilitate avoidance of punishment, similar to the real-life case of Tia Sharp. Her murderer initially gave a false statement, pleading not guilty, and therefore getting away with murder, replicates aspects of Rebecca’s case.

The directors purposefully inflict information upon the audience creating omniscience, as memories are unravelled in the form of flashbacks, as if they have access into Rebecca’s mind. Emotions of agitation ignite among the audience as the truth is revealed, followed by an undesirable outcome. 

Paragraph about genre- 

Intentionally the directors chose antagonist Rebecca to play a heinous, spiteful and deceitful character which are ideal elements of a crime scene. Through the tension provoking flash backs, the thrilling events are unveiled before us. Dark low-key lighting used throughout the film shapes the atmosphere while mirroring Rebecca's personality. 

Paragraph about key scenes-

Louise's mother questions Rebecca's sincerity with her awareness of the on going jealousy in the relationship. With what echo's our own social problems, Louise's submissive and forgiving nature means Rebecca continues to dominate and control her. What is next for the friendship? Is the jealously overcome, or does the relationship take a turn for the worst? 

Conclusion ideas-

'the plot lumbers on'
Rebecca's character is 'power-mad'  
'intermittent flashbacks'