10 Best Movies Of Grimmfest 2016 Ranked
3. Broken
A bleak drama focussing on a former rock star, now confined to a wheelchair, and his newly suffering carer. Doesn't sound that interesting does it, and yet Broken from Craig Conway and Shaun Robert Smith is an astonishingly bleak and tense thriller set within the claustrophobic confines of an unpleasantly dysfunctional relationship.
With a history that constantly threatens to catch up with her Evie is the latest care assistant to move in with tetraplegic John, a man flirting with destructive depression and unable to break the cycle of self-abuse and anger he often directs towards Evie. His constant partying, encouraged by loathsome "friend" Dougie pushes Evie to the limits, and forces her to reluctantly confront her own demons.
The sense of foreboding and restrained terror that runs right through Broken makes for an intensely uncomfortable viewing experience at times, but just like the characters on screen, you find yourself unable to break free from the spiralling inevitability of their situation. With stunning performances and direction that effortlessly puts you right inside the confines of this grim domestic prison, Broken is an utterly absorbing film that holds your attention through to the final release of pent up anger and emotion. If you don't have a drink while watching, you may well need one after.