‘Side effects may include death’
Double Blind is a 2023 Irish horror film in which test subjects in an experimental drug die if they fall asleep. Trapped in an isolated facility, panic ensues as they try to escape and somehow stay awake…
Directed by Ian Hunt-Duffy from a screenplay written by Darach McGarrigle.
The FailSafe Films production stars Millie Brady, Abby Fitz, Pollyanna McIntosh, Akshay Kumar, Diarmuid Noyes, Brenock O’Connor, Shonagh Marie, Frank Blake
Reviews:
“Incapable of distinguishing between good and evil, or reality and gruesome visions, the protagonists of Double Blind experience something which means they can no longer escape – not even momentarily – from the oppressiveness of a not-always-rosy day-to-day life, into the arms of an ever-more distant Morpheus, and Die Hexen’s sophisticated yet troubling music feeds into this oppressive and poisonous atmosphere running through the film.” Cineuropa
“Double Blind is a relentless, psychological thriller that captivates the audience’s attention and refuses to let go. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling and character development in the horror genre. The slow burn approach pays off, as it intensifies the tension and ultimately leads to a wild climax. The movie is a must-see for horror enthusiasts…” Geek Tyrant
” …we are presented with good metaphors and foreshadowing. These were both provided in what the story contained and how it was presented. These elements are not required for the enjoyment of the movie, but they add depth to the story. I recommend Double Blind for people who like a thriller-horror film that delves into the psychology of the characters.” Guild Master Gaming
“Double Blind has the kind of plot that is best not to scrutinise in any great detail but in the moment it is credible and intriguing with a strong cast helping to sell the emotional toll of what is unfolding. Millie Brady makes for a resolute, relatable heroine and Akshay Kumar makes his mark as someone whose self-interest may have jeopardised the group’s safety. Confidently executed, it also provides an ending that doesn’t frustrate…” Screen Daily
“Although all the protagonists are outlined with four lines, the truth is that he manages to make them recognizable quickly and it is appreciated that he avoids archetypes from American cinema such as nerds or morons who are just funny. It is worth highlighting how the story is capable of introducing small changes in a plot that could tend to be repetitive.” Terror Weekend [translated from Spanish]
Release:
Double Blind premiered at the Neuchâtel International Fantastic Film Festival in Switzerland on July 1, 2023.
In the US, Epic Pictures Group will release Double Blind on February 9, 2024, theatrically in select locations, on February 13, 2024, on VOD, and then on Blu-ray on March 26, 2024.
Background:
During production, director Ian Hunt-Duffy commented: “I’m delighted to be shooting Double Blind with the support of Epic and Screen Ireland. As a filmmaker, I am deeply passionate about creating original, suspenseful, and intelligent genre cinema, and I believe that the hook of our story — fall asleep and you die — is so evocative and memorable. It takes something ordinary and innocent and makes it deadly. We have a fantastic ensemble cast led by Millie Brady and horror icon Pollyanna McIntosh, so I cannot wait for audiences to experience the tension, claustrophobia, and dread that we have in store.”
Trailer:
Clip:
Technical specs:
1 hour 30 minutes
