Knuckleball

While you're watching, helmer Michael Peterson effectively earns suspension of disbelief with stark atmospherics, solid performances and a persuasive escalation of panic.

For the most part, this is a tautly constructed exercise in suspense, set among striking-looking snowbound fields and farmhouses.

Peterson crafts a chilling homage to The Shining; handles the why-doesn't-he-use-his-cellphone question nicely; and delivers a decent followup to his last feature, 2012's Lloyd the Conqueror.

The film relies heavily on the interplay between Henry and Dixon, which resembles a violent dance. Both actors invest deeply in their roles, which helps to sell the tension (particularly as the bodies begin to pile up)

Once we get to the 'action', the film doesn't let up until the climax and it's a blast to watch.

This is a slow-burner that will draw you in, with an eerie sense of atmosphere and style coupled with some excellent cinematography by Jon Thomas. One to be applauded for trying something different with conventional horror themes.

Disappointing, too, that Knuckleball introduces a lady cop so charmingly and progressively... only to reduce her to collateral damage in her very next scene.

Though gruelling in places, Knuckleball is a thriller in the truest sense.

The blunt simplicity of Knuckleball's story makes it easy to dive into, while the intense action keeps you riveted right up to its closing moments.