Berlin Syndrome

It's definitely not a film for the faint hearted, and but those willing to stick with the film for the sluggish first twenty minutes will be rewarded with one of the most memorable thrillers of the year.

The pace is so unhurried, and Shortland captures so much of the passing time in slow motion and caressing visuals, that it takes away from how humiliating her situation is for Clare.

Had the screenplay of Berlin Syndrome not taken so many liberties, it could've been a modern classic. Even though it falls short of greatness, it still is head and shoulders above the average thriller.

The only issue in the film is that the third act feels so rushed, leaving too many logical steps unanswered. Also, the subplot about Andi's relationship with his sick and withholding father goes nowhere interesting and it certainly doesn't explain how he turned into a monster.

In spite of a messy conveniently done end-game the film works well as a warning to all single girls travelling along in foreign lands. Please don't befriend strangers .And if you do, make sure to tell your mother to check on you the next morning.

Overall, this one's creepy and unsettling but will largely appeal to a niche audience, owing to its languid pace and world cinema sensibilities.