HorRHIFFic 2025: ‘Take From Me’ Review
Stars: Ethan McDowell, Dwayne A. Thomas, Kyla Dyan, Marlowe Holden, Thomas Parobek, John R. Smith Jnr, Shelby Hightower, Stephen Rourke, Scott Thomas, Amanda Evans | Written and Directed by West Eldredge
Originally debuting under the title Love Dogs, Take From Me (as the film is now known), the feature debut of writer/director West Eldredge, is an atmospheric thriller that seamlessly blends grief, mystery, and psychological tension. At its core, it’s a film about the inescapable weight of loss and the eerie sense that something, or someone, may be lurking just beyond what we perceive. While independent in scale, Take From Me doesn’t look or feel like it, delivering an engrossing narrative and a strong sense of place that lingers long after the credits roll.
The film follows John, played by Ethan McDowell, a man haunted by grief and struggling to move forward. When a mysterious young woman purchases his old farmhouse, he’s drawn to her in ways he doesn’t fully understand. Meanwhile, a local’s sudden disappearance unsettles the small town, and as the police captain investigates, a creeping sense of unease takes hold. It’s the kind of slow-burn storytelling that rewards patience, building tension with an assured hand rather than relying on cheap thrills.
Eldredge’s direction is confident, allowing the film’s themes to breathe without overstating them. The pacing is deliberate but never sluggish, pulling the audience into John’s world of quiet despair while maintaining the undercurrent of suspense. Visually, the film capitalises on its rural setting, contrasting the open beauty of the countryside with an encroaching sense of isolation. There’s an ever-present feeling that something is lurking in the shadows—whether real or imagined, we’re never quite sure.
Performance-wise, McDowell delivers a nuanced turn as John, balancing his character’s vulnerability with a guarded exterior that makes him compelling to watch. The supporting cast, including Dwayne A. Thomas and Kyla Dyan, add depth to the world, ensuring the film’s psychological and emotional stakes remain high. No one feels like a stock character; each has their own quiet motivations, making the story feel all the more authentic.
One of Take From Me’s greatest strengths is its ability to tap into the subconscious fears of its audience. It doesn’t rely on overt horror elements, yet it’s deeply unsettling. The sense of dread, paranoia and uncertainty builds subtly, and the film resists the temptation to offer easy answers. Instead, it leaves room for interpretation, making it an engaging watch for those who enjoy films that demand reflection.
Despite working with a modest budget, Take From Me feels polished and well-crafted. The sound design and score work in harmony to heighten tension, and the cinematography captures both beauty and menace in equal measure. Eldredge’s ability to create a tangible atmosphere with limited resources is impressive, proving that independent filmmaking can still deliver the kind of immersive experience we often associate with larger productions.
Ultimately, Take From Me is a film that stays with you. It’s not just about the mystery at its centre but about the way people navigate grief, connection, and the unknown forces that shape their lives. With its strong performances, confident direction, and eerie, slow-burning suspense, it’s a film worth seeking out—especially for those who appreciate thrillers that favour mood and character over spectacle.
**** 4/5
Take From Me screened as part of this year’s Romford Horror Film Festival on Friday, February 28th.
