.png)
Running Time: 94 Minutes
Starring: Maddie Hasson, Marco Pigossi, Alex Roe, Andra Nechita
A title is often the first thing that people about a film, and an effective one can let viewers know an idea of what to expect. Bone Lake is a good example, as it evokes ideas regarding horror and erotica, with the overlap effectively capturing the film's blurring of genre. The lines are further muddied as it opens with heavy panting being heard while a naked couple are seen running through a forest. As arrow bolts are fired at the pair, it is clear that they are running for their lives, but they do not get far before being executed.
Having fallen into a romantic rut, Sage (Maddie Hasson) and Diego (Marco Pigossi) try reconnecting by renting a scenic lakeside property for the weekend. However, their plans for an intimate weekend are interrupted by the arrival of Will (Alex Roe) and Cin (Andra Nechita). Discovering that the property has mistakenly been double-booked, the two couples agree to share the space and make the most of this weekend together. However, what promisingly begins as friendship soon transforms into a series of sex, lies, and violence.
Written by Joshua Friedlander and directed by Mercedes Bryce Morgan (2022's Spoonful of Sugar), the pair deliver an effective entry into the horror genre that taps into an erotic side. Central to it are Diego and Sage, a couple whose relationship is on shaky ground courtesy of the pair's simmering resentments. Hasson and Pigossi effectively sell this strained relationship, as the doubts regarding both past and future are evident despite the genuine love within. While they initially get along with the other couple, buttons are soon pushed which showcases a playfully sinister side lurking beneath Will and Cin's friendly guises.
Questions also arise regarding the titular location. What lies behind the locked doors within the property? Is there truth to the stories about people going missing? Admittedly, it is all part of a tale that approaches well-trodden paths to a less effective degree with few surprises. Although, it can help to overlook that when Morgan's direction is so slickly crafted, offering a stylish look to bring alive the grisly fun with a good sense of humour. Where else will you see a close-up shot of an arrow piercing a ballsack?
While the eventful circumstances leave the pair to go through hell, it also offers a silver lining as they reconnect and find a chance to regain each-other's trust. It is part of a journey that leaves one rooting for the central couple, and hoping that a little blood-soaked trauma will bring them back into each-other's arms. An intersection of AirBnB issues, social niceties pushed to the limit, and sexual desire, Bone Lake is the end result of Barbarian fucking Speak No Evil.
Bone Lake made its UK Premiere at FrightFest 2025, and is available on Digital Platforms from 24th November. The film is distributed by Signature Entertainment.
Comments