The Mist is a slight change of pace for the director, substituting the prison-enclosed stories of hope for an intense horror film. We’re pleased to say, though, this is a very good film that supplies shocking turns, great characters and some intense scenes.

The film gets into the swing of things early on with David Drayton (Tom Jane) taking a visit with his son to the local supermarket; shortly after arrival, the whole town around it is encompassed with a strange mist. The mist itself is eerie enough and the creatures contained within are handled with restraint in a pleasing mix of live action and CG effects.

The ambiguity that surrounds the mist, which continues throughout the film, is also refreshing. Not feeling the need to over explain everything helps keep the tone and atmosphere and with fear sweeping through the townsfolk, how it affects each of them makes for compelling viewing.

Tom Jane turns in a sturdy performance, becoming the levelheaded everyman, making for a likable and sympathetic lead amongst a more colourful supporting cast. Marcia Gay Harden especially is to be noted as the God-bothering Mrs Carmody, whose vicious actions make her stand out as one of the best cinema villains of the last few years.

Toby Jones is also to be applauded in what would normally seem like the handsome rogue-type role, bringing a realistic and earnestness to the his character Ollie while bagging some of the best lines in the film.

It’s not a perfect film, there’s a couple of cliched scenes like the usual dumb as shit teen doing something so mind-numbingly annoying that you pretty much cheer their demise. But putting this aside, there’s some stunning visual sequences, great creature effects and a strong cast of characters that you actually find yourself caring for, which is rare for the genre and helps to make The Mist stand out as one of the most entertaining and bold films of the year.

A fine suspense-filled horror film with some originality and flair that, although not the best film of the year, certainly has one of the best endings that will leave you talking about it for days after the credits have rolled. One of the best horror films of recent years that puts a shot of adrenaline in the arm of the flaccid genre.

[story by David A. Scarborough]