‘Séance‘ conjures up the suspense at Newport Beach Film Festival with two screenings during its silver anniversary of Southern California’s lifestyle event.
Having just premiered at the 25th Annual Newport Beach Film Festival, ‘Séance‘ is already drawing attention for its second screening. ‘Séance‘s blend of infidelity, mystery, and the supernatural. Its elegant cinematography by Johanna Coelho with a compelling narrative, creates a haunting exploration of the human psyche and the ties that bind us—even beyond the grave.
‘Séance‘ is the latest offering from writer-director-co-star Vivian Kerr, with its WASPish unpleasantness, weaving a tale that exemplifies the complexities of loss. Shot partially via the stunning backdrop of Crystal Cove in Newport Beach, CA, the film beautifully captures the seaside atmosphere of the Victorian era.
At the center of this atmospheric drama is novelist Emma Strand, portrayed wonderfully by Scottie Thompson. On vacation with her emasculated second husband, Albert (Connor Paolo), Emma’s world unravels when she encounters her first husband, George (Jilon VanOver), and his troubled young wife, Lillian (Kerr). ‘Séance‘ skillfully explores Emma’s inner turmoil as she grapples with temptation and the shadows of her past, all while taking refuge in George and Lillian’s opulent mansion during a sudden storm.
Kerr’s direction shines as she skillfully balances the film’s posh elements with profound emotional depth. The use of occult practices to connect with the other side creates even more tension, particularly as Emma confronts the tragic loss of George and Lillian’s daughter, Hazel, whose presence seems to linger in the haunted halls of the mansion.
With a running time of just 85 minutes, ‘Séance‘ manages to showcase the stellar performances of its cast. Thompson, in particular, embodies a woman torn between loyalty and desire, while Kerr as Lillian brings an unsettling energy that perfectly complements the film’s dark undertones and what a mother is willing to do for one more moment with her child.
‘Séance‘ has its second showing during the Newport Beach Film Festival, on Thursday, October 24, 2o24, at The Triangle.
To purchase tickets for Séance‘ visit: https://nbff2024.eventive.org/.
Summary
‘Séance‘ conjures emotions of insecurity, hopelessness and fear, while challenging the ideas of the Victorian era through occult practices.
