User Reviews

This gritty drama based on Tennyson's Lady of Shalott tells the story of how one man's search for love becomes the catalyst for a woman's agoraphobia and fear. Georgiou's cheeky wide boy character is great at dividing the audiences perception between innocent loner and serial stalker. Nicola Cussons playing the bailiff makes for a great scene between Georgiou and Kennedy. Technically adept, and swift direction from Osborne allows for an entertaining 'The Bill' style drama. Overall this is well executed but the audience is left wanting more perhaps from this sometimes over-the-top stalker & innocent woman relationship. I give it a seven because I'm feeling generous.

Gary Osborne's first directive foray into gritty drama is a surprisingly pleasing watch. He leads us through what could be described as an extreme look into the mentality of a stalker named Frank, played inspirationally by the well-casted Kyriacos Giorgiou who steals the show. Nicola Cussons also performs well as the bailiff, although more screen time from her would probably have given the film more credibility.

An excellent musical score provides some moody atmospheric tension, although it is perhaps a little too extreme and over-used in some parts.

The acting from main female lead Joanna Kennedy (Cherise) leaves a lot to be desired, and the scriptwriter could maybe do with a few extra lessons in delivery of dialogue.

Overall, 'Cherise' proves to be an interesting modern adaptation of a classic tale, and this is helped by the gritty style of cinematography from Neil Szymanski, who's hand-held style of camera wouldn't look out of place on an episode of 'The Bill'.

A generous 8 for this pleasingly entertaining short film.