The Overlook: Hidden

(imdb.com)

For a movie that came out of nowhere and was seldom seen, the aptly titled Hidden seems to have found new light. Successfully charting on iTunes' horror section and becoming an indie hit, Hidden is the type of revolutionary pandemic film audience's should be compelled to watch. The film first came out in 2015 and was quietly distributed, only found by those who were looking for it.

 Like so many post-apocalyptic films before it, Hidden begins with the typical daily survival tasks of a family of three. However, as the film progresses and the couple and their daughter are forced to leave their home, audiences will quickly realize that this horror-thriller is much more than meets the eye. Hidden stars Alexander Skarsgard (True Blood) as the father Ray, Andrea Rideborough (Birdman) as the mother Claire and Emily Alyn Lind (Revenge) as daughter Zoe.

Hidden is a relatively high-tension film given its title, which as noted seems more meant for its release than its plot. From the opening moments, everything feels uneasy; there are moments of hushed silence, food shortages and the omnipresent monsters in the distant outlook.  The "monsters" (in quotes because, spoilers) are terrifying as they attempt to kill the family and their escape is all the more harrowing because of it.

The second act packs a whopping punch as viewers get their first true look at the outside, post-apocalyptic world. This is where things crank up as the now homeless refugees attempt to find safety in a dangerous world closing in around them. By the time the film reaches its final climactic moment, viewers can expect to be stunned. Like a good M. Night Shyamalan twist, the turn of events in Hidden is outstanding. From the star moment for child actress Lind, to the sub-textual true monsters of the film, Hidden overcomes any practicalities as it makes a mad dash toward originality.

Overall, the biggest strengths of Hidden are its great acting and ability to create unplaced suspense/ Skarsgard is especially good in his starring role and is able to take on the "father" role quite well. Rideborough, while dealt a smaller role, is equally as talented, providing emotional depth to this stark film. As noted, a surprisingly adequate child actor comes into the spotlight with Emily Alyn Lind, who's Zoe is great.

Hidden hides the roar of a lion in its subtle release and title. It's the type of movie best watched at night, with full investment in the darkened bunker that is the family's home. By allowing yourself to be consumed into what looks to be a much simpler movie, the twist becomes that much better. And, even if you start to figure it out early, it doesn't stop it from still being an exciting journey and entry into the subgenre.