FEAR is an acronym for Forget Everything And Run. Despite the ominous title, this is not another by the books horror film but rather something much deeper and perhaps more chilling. It is a study of how ordinary people in extraordinary situations deal with desperation, isolation and yes, fear. What writer, co-director and star, Jason Tobias has created here is a tense tale of unnerving suspense as two families clash in a brutal struggle for survival in a wintry wilderness. The separation from society in this dark setting makes for an apocalyptic feel where the creatures that hunt them may not be the biggest threat. There are plenty of chills, scares and intense scenes yet ultimately the film is a powerful, character driven drama with well written dialogue and a strong cast taking us on a journey that compels you to forget for a moment that this is a movie and allows you to care for and identify with these people and what motivates them. There are some stunning visuals that brilliantly elevate the mood, especially the sense of dread. But elevating it above other films like this is its heart and the emotions and questions it inspires. And ultimately, how you perceive the acronym for FEAR. Easily one of the best films I've seen in quite some time!
