Preservation (2014)
Genre: Survival Thriller / Horror
Directed by: Christopher Denham
Starring: Wrenn Schmidt, Pablo Schreiber, Aaron Staton, Cody Saintgnue
Preservation is a taut survival thriller that explores the primal instincts lurking beneath civilized facades. Directed by Christopher Denham, the film follows Wit (Wrenn Schmidt), her husband Mike (Aaron Staton), and his brother Sean (Pablo Schreiber) as they embark on a hunting trip in a closed nature preserve. What begins as an attempt to reconnect and unwind quickly devolves into a harrowing fight for survival when they become the targets of unseen assailants.
The narrative delves into themes of isolation, trust, and the thin veneer of societal norms. As the trio grapples with their dire circumstances, personal tensions surface, revealing underlying fractures in their relationships. Wit, initially portrayed as the most reserved, emerges as a formidable force, challenging traditional gender roles within the survival genre.
Cinematographer Nicola Marsh captures the oppressive atmosphere of the forest, using tight framing and natural lighting to heighten the sense of entrapment. The film’s sound design further amplifies the tension, with every rustle and snap contributing to the pervasive sense of dread.
While Preservation received mixed reviews upon release, with some critics pointing to its reliance on genre conventions, others praised its psychological depth and Schmidt’s compelling performance. The film stands as a stark reminder of the latent savagery that can surface when survival is at stake.
In summary, Preservation is a chilling exploration of human nature under duress, offering a suspenseful experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
