The Eternal Daughter

Tilda Swinton puts on a magnificent performance in this gothic mystery film which looks deeply into a mother/daughter relationship and pushes the viewer to consider their own. Combine this with the oppressive gloomy atmosphere and a story which is not as straightforward as it seems, you have everything you need for a film which will suck you in and occupy space in your mind long after the curtain draws. Filmmaker Julie and her mother Rosalind (both played by Swinton) holiday to a quiet hotel to spend more time together, and so Julie can gather information to make a film about her mother. What follows is a twisting story about a daughter trying to understand her mother better as she explores her own familial hopes and insecurities. The stellar performance by Swinton is a key highlight of this film, she plays two very distinct characters, who still share strong family bonds. Swinton more than rises to this challenge and delivers two powerful performances which makes for a mesmerising film, especially given the lack of a supporting cast. This attention-grabbing performance is only amplified by the grim gothic atmosphere within the film. Director Joanna Hogg does a great job at selling this feeling both in external wide shots of the hotel, and in more intimate shots within the halls and rooms. Feelings of dread and mystery shroud the film and will fully immerse you and keep you guessing.

James Patt