THE DROWNING OF ARTHUR BRAXTON

Cinemavixion Review

Luke Cutforth's "The Drowning of Arthur Braxton" plunges into a dark, fantastical narrative that blends the mundane struggles of adolescence with a chilling supernatural element. James Tarpey delivers a compelling performance as Arthur, a schoolboy from a troubled home who finds solace and infatuation with Delphina, portrayed by Rebecca Hanssen. Their burgeoning romance is set against the backdrop of an abandoned Edwardian bathhouse, a location that becomes central to the film's mystery. However, Delphina is no ordinary girl; she is a water-nymph whose existence is sustained by a sinister ritual involving the sacrifice of children. Arthur's journey becomes a desperate fight not only to navigate his own challenging circumstances, including an alcoholic father played by Johnny Vegas and the usual torments of school bullies and authorities, but also to unravel and halt the cycle of murder that fuels the bathhouse's dark magic. The film, released in 2021, is a British production that explores themes of sacrifice, desperation, and the hidden dangers lurking beneath the surface of seemingly idyllic places. Its unique premise and atmospheric setting make it a noteworthy entry into the genre, offering a blend of coming-of-age drama with a supernatural thriller.