Murder under the guise of vacation

Hearth

by Kathia Woods

Many are using their homes to earn an additional income via rental services such as Airbnb or home swap however we never think about all things that can occur during that rental. “Hearth” delves into that darker side. On the surface we have a couple enjoying a romantic getaway but soon we discover all is not what it seems.

“Hearth” may be a short film, but it packs a lot of suspense into its ten minutes. I love how it utilizes the exchange between the owner and the renters how the dialogue is normal amidst all the abnormality.

This film creates suspense and terror through subtle dialogue and effective lighting. The music is also very well utilized reminiscent of French Film Noirs. Hearth stars Academy Award Winner Marianne Farley as one half of the romantic couple. Her presence in this film is a great endorsement for Sophie B. Jacques as a director.

Don’t let the fact that movie is in French deter you from watching. I really enjoyed it and wanted it to continue and I am looking forward to more movies from Sophie B. Jacques. Also it may have you take extra precautions the next time you rent a home away from home.