Relic (2020)

Directed by: Natalie Erika James | 89 minutes | drama, horror | Actors: Robyn Nevin, Emily Mortimer, Bella Heathcote, Steve Rodgers, Chris Bunton, Robin Northover, Catherine Glavicic, Christina O’Neill, John Browning, Jeremy Stanford, Ellie Dewhurst, Isabella Clegg, Alex Cotterell, Charly Thorn

An exciting horror film is not so much about jump scares or scary monsters, but about building tension and believable characters. Natalie Erika James knows that and has created an atmospheric horror film. A nasty slowburner when it comes to the characters.

In ‘Relic’ you meet Kay (Emily Mortimer) and her granddaughter Sam (Bella Heathcote). The duo don’t like each other very well, but the situation surrounding Edna (Robyn Nevin) forces them to reconcile their differences. Mother and grandmother are not doing well – the old lady has disappeared instantly and the authorities do not know where she is – so the two decide to look for her and offer help. Something Edna is not waiting for when she casually reappears after a few days of absence. According to the old berry there is ‘something’ in her house and she is behaving strangely.

As little prior knowledge as possible is desirable if you decide to watch ‘Relic’. The plot and the impressive finale are best when you are in the dark for that. Although this movie of James is marketed as a horror film, at its core it is more of a drama about family. There are certainly some exciting and gore elements in this film, but this is certainly not a jump scare feast.

The greatest asset of this film is Nevin. She portrays the enigmatic Edna with great flair. Something isn’t right about this woman, but you don’t know what (yet). The always reliable Mortimer offers good counterplay. She acts subservient and gives her opponents all the space they need to shine. Heathcote is also on a roll as a curious granddaughter who uncovers more and more hidden family secrets and discovers that nothing is as it seems.

‘Relic’ is a decent drama thriller. The film is well put together and can count on strong acting. Sometimes the tension arc collapses and the stretch seems out. Despite the compact running time of 89 minutes, the film comes across as somewhat boring at times. A little more tempo would have helped the film. Minor flaws of a film with an intelligent plot and strong actresses.