ARROW FRIGHTFEST (digital edition): The Columnist
FRIGHTFESTIvo van Aart's The Columnist is a bold, effective and stirring horror/thriller that turns the tables on expectation with gloriously engaging and captivating results.
The standout here is most definitely the performance of Katja Herbers as Femke Boot. It is a multifaceted and dynamic role that showcases not only an outstanding emotional range from the actress but a perfect balance of protagonist and anti-hero. It's a performance that travels a very thin line between satire and obscene. However, it is the screenplay from Daan Windhorst that, again, balances dark humour and satire to a perfect envision.
This is a film that will shock, surprise and inflict a certain sense of humour. Yet, overall, it works with its multifaceted and dynamic take on the 21st century and social media influence. To see Herbers's Boot descend into a technological madness due to her presence on social media is not only shocking but also saddening. While these are themes are wrapped in a subverted comedic twist of the persecuted getting her own back, it is often contextually devastating and painful to witness such devastation.
There is a lot that Ivo van Aart's The Columnist has to say about the influence of social media, its impact on people and the misogynistic undertones. Wrapped in a layered screenplay and fantastic central performance from Katja Herbers, The Columnist works effectively not only as a straight-laced horror film but also offering a meaningful subtext for those looking for elevated horror.
