Saving Grace is an example of what Australian filmmakers do well; embellish the natural beauty of the landscape, whilst exposing the hidden dangers both in topography and in the psychology of those who walk the country. 

The directing, writing partnership of Gareth Carr and David Sullivan work well together in slowly drawing out these concealments of character, ebbing away at the exterior to expose the true intentions.

Sarah (Kirsty McKenzie – Magic) is a live-in care worker, who discovers her patient has passed away. Seeking a chance for change, Sarah abandons the chaos of city life to take up residence in a serene, idyllic location to look after an elderly lady (the titular Grace). Grace is incapacitated and mute, so requires 24 hour care as a result. 

Surrounded by waterways, Sarah seeks refuge during her downtime, but the remote setting is shared by the resident gardener, Albert (Gary Boulter – Skinford), a man who’s friendly demeanour warrants closer scrutiny, as does his tale of Grace’s past. 

This is only part of Sarah’s concerns though, as she begins to have dark visions, forcing her to plough headlong into ominous terrain where every choice is questioned, and suspicions heightened.

The Prognosis:

Kirsty McKenzie is profound in her portrayal of Sarah, twisting and turning through every decision she makes, as the narrative equally flitters in an unpredictable way. It’s a compelling approach by the film makers, allowing for our trust to reside in the characters and the land in which it is set. Trust though, is the very thing that we, the viewer, can not rely upon. Beauty is only skin deep and just as our eyes rely upon what we see, this can be deceptive, allowing Carr and Sullivan to play with our senses, and our securities, before veering us into a entrancing-yet-disturbing direction.

– Saul Muerte

Saving Grace is screening at A Night of Horror International Film Festival on Saturday Sept 30th at 5.10pm,

Plus Q&A with writers/directors Gareth Carr & David Sullivan and actor Gary Boulter 

It also screens with short feature, Nightcap