Mel (Vincent Miller) is a young man who has just been transferred from a juvenile facility to an adult prison. Upon his arrival, he learns he will be sharing a cell with Mark Shepard (Cosmo Jarvis), who is in jail for ‘max’ (maximum time). Although it’s never directly mentioned, it’s clear that Mel feels uneasy about sharing a cell with someone convicted of such severe crimes. When Mel moves into the cell with Mark, he finds out that Mark claims to have recently become born again. He believes that thanks to Christ, his sins have been washed away. Mark’s newfound faith has inspired him to hold regular church services in prison. However, this only deepens Mel’s discomfort for personal reasons. Additionally, we learn that Mel is not interested in following the prison’s guidelines to earn parole.
At the same time, we meet another prisoner named Warren (Guy Pearce), who is approaching a parole hearing in the next two months and hopes to reunite with his son outside the prison walls. Although Warren is focused on his goals, he faces personal challenges in prison. Due to poor decisions and bad bets, he has accumulated significant debt with the wrong kind of people. Following an incident with his cellmate, Warren is assigned a new cellmate- Mel. Warren must share a cell with Mel and is encouraged to offer guidance and support to help Mel navigate his time in prison, as he is the newest inmate. However, as Warren learns more about Mel’s feelings about Mark, they devise a plan that could benefit them both. The question remains: can Mel and Warren successfully execute their plan?
Inside is a heavy drama film that combines a strong crime narrative with elements of a minor thriller. There are many unpredictable moments and outcomes throughout, especially in the film’s third and final act. The film was written and directed by Charles Williams, who has previously worked on several short films, including All These Creatures (2018) and Home (2015).
When it comes to the performances, everything is convincing, compelling, dramatic, and incredibly well-executed. Each main character is distinct, serving time in prison for different reasons. They each carry their unique journeys and pasts. However, the film’s primary focus is not just on what happens inside the prison walls but, more importantly, on what remains inside ourselves, such as a flicker of goodness or hope. The plot is excellent and continually gripping, making it easy for viewers to become engrossed. Through well-placed flashbacks, the audience gets to know more about each character. I found myself eager to see how the film would conclude. Would our leads find a satisfying resolution, or would their lives turn for the worse?
The prison setting in the film is excellent, and I felt a sense of unease simply because of its primary location. The authenticity of both the setting and the prison itself contribute to the film’s portrayal of prison life as an utter nightmare and a torturous existence. The filming style is also commendable, particularly during conversations between characters. I found myself consistently engaged and, at times, on the edge of my seat, worried or concerned about specific outcomes. I often found the script powerful and raw.
Overall, Inside is an outstanding drama film that features a gripping crime story. I was deeply invested in the various characters from the beginning and eager to discover how the film would conclude. The prison setting, the performances, and the dialogue all feel authentic. The journey is unpredictable, with many scenes likely to surprise or leave you stunned. While prison life is undoubtedly hellish, the more considerable suffering often comes from within. I appreciate that the film’s primary focus and concept are profound and unique, exploring themes that have not yet been fully addressed in Australian cinema.
Inside (2024) is Coming Soon to Australian Cinemas!
Published: 5th November 2024
Written by: Peter Walkden
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