Citadel (2012)

Ciaran Foy's Citadel (Ireland, 2012) - 2012PIFAN Best Director and Best Actor (Aneurin Barnard) Winner. Irish psychological horror tale Citadel suggests that neophyte writer-director Ciaran Foy is a promising new talent in the genre - even if its distinctly low-budget feel and bleak mood suggest strictly limited commercial potential. Hard core horror fans may well take note but scaring up any kind of mainstream audience may be unlikely.  Set in a wintry urban landscape of decaying tower blocks and dilapidated housing estates, the story begins with young husband Tommy (Aneurin Barnard, from Hunky Dory) watching helplessly as his pregnant wife is attacked by what appears to be a gang of hooded kids. Left to raise his newborn daughter alone, Tommy struggles with agoraphobia and his fear that the gang will return. However, an embittered priest (James Cosmo, from TV’s Game Of Thrones) leads Tommy to the attackers’ lair and gives him a chance to save himself and his daughter. 2012PIFAN, 2012SEA, 2012SXSW. RATING: 6