THE PASSENGER **** Spain / Denmark 2021 Dir: Raúl Cerezo & Fernando González Gómez. 90 mins
La Pasajera or The Passenger finds Blasco driving three women to a small village when he hits a woman walking down the dark country road. She begins to behave oddly, leading the remaining occupants to fight for their lives.
Raúl Cerezo & Fernando González Gómez’ sci-fi horror takes influence from John Carpenter’s The Thing with an unknown parasitical entity taking over various characters. Whilst this is a slow burner, this is used to set the scene and create a creepy atmosphere, whilst convincing the audience to root for Blasco (Ramiro Blas) and Marta (Paula Gallego).
Both actors, as well as the remaining cast, were well suited to their roles and they clearly had chemistry with a father / daughter vibe.
The film is visually beautiful with some great cinematography and scenery that looks inviting, until darkness falls.
The make-up was effective, along with an alarming amount of slime. They didn’t aim beyond their budget and ensured the effects were fitting into the storyline.
The ending was a great twist that I found somewhat original, making the film all the more enjoyable having been glued to the edge of my seat throughout it’s 90 minute run time.
The claustrophobic atmosphere of Nessa (the van) along with various shots made the audience feel hemmed in with little chance of escape.
Review by Poppy Blundell