Vinyan

VINYAN (2008) - Sept. 6, 2008
About a couple who, after spotting what could be their missing son in a video shot in Burma, decide to head down there to see if they can find him. Things almost immediately go bad for the couple, and then proceed to go from bad to worse. Well directed and featuring some good performances, particularly Rufus Sewell, this was a bit slower than it probably needed to be, but did a good job of maintaining a steadily escalating atmosphere of dread. It kind of falls apart at the end, with a denouement that stretches credibility to its very breaking-point. It's a bit unfortunate, because up to that point the film manages to maintain a realistic, gritty tone which is completely at odds with the conclusion. I did really like the opening credits, which I thought did a fantastic job of establishing the tone of the film. **1/2