The Group (2022) Review
Join THE GROUP for a fear-inducing suspense shocker that sees an addiction support meeting descend into chaos… Written and directed by William Higo (T2 TRAINSPOTTING: 20 YEARS IN THE MAKING, WORLD OF DEATH), this white-knuckle thriller made a big impact at FrightFest 2022 and now, makes its UK debut on digital on 2 September courtesy of Reel 2 Reel Films.
Recovering heroin addict Kara (Evangelina Burton) has a relapse and after six months away, makes the brave decision to return to Addicts Anonymous Together in an attempt to make amends for a past tragedy. There, she joins the circle for a session of healing with Seth who claims to be clean and sober (Luke Dayhill), self-help sceptic Henry (Tom Coulston), two-years-sober Charley (Jennifer Aries), still-using Eddy (Nobuse ‘Jnr’ Uwaifo), and ex-copper Dave (Mike Kelson), all under the guidance of supportive counsellor Ellen (Alicia Novak).
However, when newcomer Jack (Dylan Baldwin – DUNE PART TWO) arrives, their safe space is violently shattered. Armed with a loaded gun and a personal vendetta, Jack is hellbent on redemption – whatever the cost. As secrets unravel, the group is forced to confront long-buried wrongs… Can they make peace with their past or will they face the ultimate reckoning?
THE GROUP offers up a regularly used scenario, that of having someone who feels that they have a right to point an accusing finger, or in this case a handgun, at others and highlight their wrong doings, all the while carrying out violent acts that would not only put them in the same ballpark as those they are punishing but arguably proving themselves to be worse than any of them.
Aside from the occasional outdoors shot THE GROUP is set in one location but oddly opts not to milk this for claustrophobic tension. The acting is variable, however the cast’s commitment and passion is evident and more than makes up for any shortcomings. At just 71 minutes runtime it certainly does not outstay its welcome. It’s short, to the point, flawed, yes, but it all comes together eventually for a satisfying climax.