Simon Blake’s debut feature is a slow burn thriller with enough heart to match its white knuckle adrenaline. The director pays homage to many classic noirs throughout his movie, while keeping the story and the characters fresh and real. Aidan Gillen (Game Of Thrones) gives a heartbreaking performance as a not-so-successful photographer grieving the loss of his teenage son and his marriage.

Still is a dark film, both in tone and in image itself. Most of the film takes place in the King’s Cross home of Gillen’s character where the shades are always pulled tight. His life is turned upside down when a group of teens called the Under-5’s start messing with him. He tries to look the other way, but when those close to him become entangled in this dangerous web…well, a man can only be pushed so far.

Based on a play written by Blake himself, Still is more put together than most first-time directors can manage. He’s crafted a very good film from what must be a fine play.

Still is playing at the Chicago International Film Festival with one screening left, Wednesday October 15th at 2:30pm. Tickets can be purchased in advance here.