‘YOU’LL NEVER FIND ME’: A Claustrophobic Story Of Vengeance
This debut feature from promising filmmakers Indianna Bell and Josiah Allen, which premiered at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival, is a captivating thriller that manages to create a potent atmosphere of suspense and tension.
Set against the backdrop of a stormy night, the film begins with Patrick (Brendan Rock), a solitary man living in a trailer, who is disturbed by persistent knocks from neighborhood kids. From the moment he appears on screen, we are unsure what to make of him. He is depicted as a reclusive individual, clearly fearful of something, but we're not completely sure we can trust him.
Physically, Patrick presents as a rugged, middle-aged man, embodying a sense of weariness that suggests he has faced significant challenges in life. His home, cluttered and somewhat neglected, reflects his internal state, hinting at a man who is perhaps burdened by past traumas. We sympathize with his pain from the incessant knocking by the kids, a recurring nuisance that he seems resigned to. He appears weak, lonely, and lost as he stares at both his front door and the ceiling.
Jordan Cowan in ‘You’ll Never Find Me’
However, it is not children knocking, but a mysterious woman (Jordan Cavan) seeking shelter from the storm. His initial reaction to this unexpected visitor reveals a man who is cautious and wary of others, suggesting a past that may have left him scarred or distrustful. The first interaction between Patrick and the woman is fraught with suspicion. Patrick, though initially hesitant, offers her dry clothes and food, setting the stage for a night of guarded conversations and growing unease. This triggers an immediate sense of tension as the storm rages, cultivating an eerie atmosphere that is further amplified by the claustrophobic setting of Patrick’s trailer.
When asked why she is out in the storm in the middle of the night, the woman is initially evasive. As the night progresses, she begins to reveal snippets of her past, raising questions about her true motives. Is she merely seeking refuge, or is there a more sinister reason for her presence? The dialogue is sharp and laden with subtext, as both characters probe each other for weaknesses while trying to maintain their own defenses.
Jordan Cowan in ‘You’ll Never Find Me’
One of the standout scenes in the film is when the power suddenly goes out, plunging the trailer into darkness. This moment is a masterclass in building suspense, as both characters are forced to confront their fears and suspicions in the pitch-black environment. The use of sound during this scene is particularly effective, with the storm outside and the creaking of the trailer heightening the sense of dread.
The film’s pacing, while deliberate, allows for a deep dive into the psychological underpinnings of the characters. Patrick’s backstory, hinted at through his interactions and the state of his trailer, suggests a man burdened by his own demons. Meanwhile, the woman’s increasingly erratic behavior adds layers of complexity to her character, making the audience question her reliability.
Despite its strong start and atmospheric build-up, the film struggles to maintain its momentum in the second act. Some critics have pointed out that the narrative becomes somewhat stagnant, with the tension that was so effectively built up in the first half starting to wane. However, the film’s technical aspects are commendable. The cinematography is striking, using the confined space of the trailer to create a sense of entrapment. The sound design, with the constant presence of the storm, adds to the oppressive atmosphere, making the audience feel as if they are right there with the characters.
Throughout the film, Patrick initially appears as an ordinary or perhaps sympathetic character, but as the story progresses, subtle hints suggest a darker side to his personality. This builds up to a twist where those affected by his actions seek their own form of justice, creating a dramatic shift in the storyline, but no spoilers!
In conclusion, ‘You’ll Never Find Me‘ is a visually and atmospherically engaging thrill ride. Its strong performances, particularly by Brendan Rock and Jordan Cavan, and its effective use of setting make it a noteworthy entry in the genre. While the film may falter in its narrative development, it remains a compelling watch for those who appreciate psychological thrillers with a strong sense of atmosphere.