SCREEN SHOT - Silent Night

Silent Night ( 2021 ) is an unusual black comedy drama. Originally made just prior to the Pandemic. For reasons that become obvious once you start watching, releasing this during the Pandemic would have been more than a bit tactless.

A group of friends from University still meet up regularly for Christmas, even twenty years later. They've all made something of their lives, middle class affluent and protected from the real vissitudes of life.There are old, barely supressed, caustic dynamics playing out among the adults and their over indulged children. Initially this seems a stereotypical satire on middle class privilege and entitlement.

As the film progresses it becomes clear the world they are living in has reached an apocalyptic point. This Christmas the entire world is due to be hit by a storm of toxic gas, that no one is expected to survive. The government has provided 'exit' pills, so people can die without enduring pain or suffering.

The dialogue is quick, witty, bleak and as sharp as nails, as people's essential selfishness has to face the truth of this oncoming doom laden reality. Whilst the adults try to button it all up, ostensibly for the sake of their children, the children themselves are really the most aware of what is about to happen and take charge of their destiny, whilst swearing and cursing like Trojans.

There are some very fine performances in this brilliantly conceived film, set at Christmas time, but not about Christmas. I enjoyed it hugely. One minute it's laugh out loud, the next it has touching moments of real existential poignancy, deeply felt. Both of which it pulls off with great aplomb. Highly recommend.

CARROT REVIEW - 7/8