Red Riding Trilogy: Part 1 1974 (Film)

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Red Riding is a unique trilogy.  The three parts are loosely tied together, primary on catalyst and location.  In many ways, each film is a different aspect and introspection to the Riding districts of Yorkshire.  Each film ties in real life crimes to create it's conspiracy laden fiction.  This film looked very interesting to me for it's unabashed British cast and diction.  Since the first one starred current Amazing Spider-Man, I figured there would be some good things to see.

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Red Riding 1974 is directed by Julian Jarrod and set in Yorkshire 1974.  We follow young reporter Eddie Dunford, played by Andre Garfield.  With the on set of a new story, a young girl is missing, Eddie begins his own investigation.  He quickly finds evidence that this is a unique case.  In fact it may be part of a bigger case.  As he delves more into his search, he meets Paula Garland (Rebecca Hall).  Paula's daughter was one of the missing girls.  Soon, the two find themselves becoming intimately involved with each other.  This is not acceptable to the higher powers of the street.  Namely John Dawson, played by Sean Bean.  Things slowly but surely spiral out of control has Eddie is trying to piece things together, even as he is falling apart. 

Eddie Dunford chatting up Paula Garland

Good - This was a strong yet subtle movie.  It takes some time to figure out what is happening.  And it takes some time to know exactly who it is you want to succeed.   These traits of the film follow well with the movie.  Like real life, we may have all the pieces but it still takes time to get them all together, to make them fit, and see the big picture.  This is a film that demands multiple viewings.  And likewise, who never know who is truly for you and who is for themselves.  So I enjoyed those aspects of Red Riding 1974.  The colors of this film were very dark with low contrast.  It really helped with the atmosphere of the movie, that a stark reality was enfolding you.  All the characters were acted out well, making it a film you could get lost in. 

Bad - The British dialogue is very British, making an American like me a few moment were i didn't know what was being said.  This film series was made for U.K television though and I'm glad they didn't water it down. 

One of the missing daughter

Overall -  I really enjoyed this film.  This is a film that expects the audience to keep up and follow.  And it gives a big pay off for those who stick around.  For fans of conspiracy theories, whodunits, and tragic heroes, check out this great Brit Flick!  4.5 stars out of 5.