Foul Play

Directed by Richard James

2022

Themes of secrecy, belonging and horror are the focus of a new short film by Leicester filmmaker Richard James.

The film opens to Peggy Marshall (Eve Harding) identifying her late husband's body in the morgue. He has committed suicide which has shocked her into a state of disbelief.

Whilst sorting through the clothes he wore when he passed, she comes across interesting possessions within the pockets of a jacket. These include a substantial amount of cash folded in a clip, a knife and a book of matches from a mysterious underground club in town.

Within the first few minutes we know this is going to be a unique experience, there is an atmosphere and tone surrounding the film that reminds me of the noir/detective films of the 40s and 50s. Candlelight and booming fires replace loud lighting, whilst hair and make-up is styled in a reminiscent way of the time.

As Peggy arrives at the underground bar for more information about her late husband's secret life, a woman approaches her and beckons her into a private back room.

This woman is Tereni Fairuz (Lady-Viper), she divulges she knew Peggy's husband as he was once a member, and that the club is secretive but its members are very involved.

Once Tereni is introduced the film's tone takes a more surreal, neo-noir turn. There's a mystique to the character, and performed with great detail and thought by Lady-Viper.

This larger than life character is in danger of becoming cartoon-like in some segments but I think once the film is over it becomes clear this is intentional.

Foul Play is directed well by Richard James, with the exterior shots and use of location shooting giving the film gravitas. James also conjures up two enjoyable performances from his two female leads.

Whilst I thought some of the score felt out of place, a few original songs by musician Mike Riley are used to great effect in the film, with the track Vampires recently being nominated for Best Music Song (or Score) at the 2022 Midland Movies Awards.

Both songs fit will within the film with Vampires being particularly memorable, even after the credits have rolled.

Fans of the genre will appreciate this eccentric, dreamlike short film as it plays along to its own beat, but it's the satisfying pay-off in the final act that will keep everyone in the audience interested.

★★★½☆

Guy Russell

Twitter @budguyer