“Films like this remind us that great filmmakers can come from anywhere.”

Malum Parish Vicar, Arthur, is called to the quaint seaside cottage of local fisherman Henwick, on the bleak winter English coastline. As the two men sit before the hearth on a stormy night, Henwick confides in Arthur's faith as he proceeds to elucidate an event that changed his life forever: failing to save a girl from drowning on the shoreline before his house.

This dramatic and powerful horror from director/writer Gaius Milne Brown has all the ingredients of a five star film. The story, cast, production and everything in between are all working at the highest standard. It makes for a wonderful watch that we can’t help but love!

Let’s begin by saying that Gaius Milne Brown handles both writing and directing for this film, which in many ways is no surprise considering the final result. The story has many influences but manages to create a new take on the genre that doesn’t shock the audience like typical horrors, instead it pulls you in and creates more tension the longer you watch. This is how you make a memorable horror film that only becomes more compelling the more you watch. Gaius Milne Brown shows great promise with this take on an original classic horror story which is not something that is easily achieved. Films like this are a challenge to pull off but ‘Henwick’ does it spectacularly. The depth of the story and natural horror elements make this film a must watch for any viewer, not just horror enthusiasts.

The cast of Patrick O'Donnell (Henwick) and Thomas Loone (Father) is powerful to watch. They both have incredible chemistry and play off each other wonderfully to create their own compelling performances. The relaxed and natural delivery from Loone plays up to O'Donnell’ more disturbed character. O'Donnell’ performance is one that you don’t find often in short films as there is so much depth and emotion in his delivery. Both actors are given great material to work with but make it their own.

The production quality of the film is fit for cinema, everything works. Even non filmmakers will recognise the great cinematography that does the story justice. Considering the great locations the team had to work with, they certainly made full use of them. The colour grade is fitting for the genre and doesn’t feel added in. The use of lighting adds to the mystery and more terrifying moments of the story which will have viewers on the edge of the seat.

The subtle brooding score helps to build the tension and atmosphere perfectly, allowing us to focus entirely on the dialogue but at the same time feel a great sense of suspense. The sound design also manages to stand out by adding to the rich atmosphere and compelling mood of the film.

When it comes to horror, look no further. It’s refreshing to see such an original story and execution of a film which is in such a saturated genre. Films like this remind us that great filmmakers can come from anywhere…

— APEX Film Awards