“Refuge” (2023) is a gripping psychological thriller that explores the fragility of the human mind under pressure and the lengths people will go to when seeking survival. Directed by David F. Sandberg, the film delves into themes of fear, isolation, and the moral conflicts that arise in extreme situations. With its intense atmosphere and unpredictable twists, Refuge keeps viewers on edge, questioning the boundaries between reality and paranoia.
The story follows Claire (played by Olivia Cooke), a young woman who, after surviving a violent attack, seeks refuge in a remote cabin in the woods. Struggling with trauma and an overwhelming sense of fear, Claire believes she’s being hunted by the same assailants who attacked her. Desperate for peace and safety, she isolates herself from the outside world, hoping to escape the looming threat.
As Claire’s isolation deepens, her mind begins to unravel, and strange occurrences make her question her own sanity. Is she truly being stalked, or is the terror she feels a product of her psyche breaking down? As the line between reality and delusion blurs, Claire is forced to confront her past, the trauma she’s running from, and the dark secrets hidden in the cabin. With every passing day, her paranoia grows, and the horrors she faces become more intense and unrelenting.
Refuge delves into the psychological impact of trauma and the emotional toll of living in constant fear. It examines themes of self-preservation, guilt, and the haunting effects of unresolved pain. The film raises the question of how far one is willing to go to escape danger, even if the danger is self-created or imagined.
Visually, the film creates a tense, claustrophobic atmosphere with its use of the remote cabin setting. The cinematography emphasizes the isolation, using shadows and tight, unsettling shots to amplify Claire’s growing paranoia. The haunting score adds to the suspense, amplifying the feeling that something is always lurking just out of sight. With its intense pacing and emotionally charged performances, Refuge keeps the audience hooked, offering a thrilling journey into the mind of a woman unraveling in the face of fear.
