#REVIEW: “THE KING TIDE”

By Mr. Will Wong

After an acclaimed run on the Festival Circuit including TIFF ’23, Director Christian Sparkes (Cast No Shadow) and Screenwriter/Director Albert Shin (Clifton Hill) are back with THE KING TIDE.

Set on a fishing island, we meet a community convinced that a young girl named Isla (Alix West Lefler) has healing powers, which in turn ensures that local fishermen are able to thrive, with an abundance of fish being drawn to her presence. This isn’t great for all though, as a local doctor (Aden Young) no longer is needed because of her ability to heal. Her adopted parents Bobby and Grace (Clayne Crawford and Lara Jean Chorostecki) capitalize off her abilities, leveraging power over the locals. The community is shaken-up after a tragic occurence  and they are left scrambling and in despair, unsure how to cope.

THE KING TIDE is an allegory for the dangers of what happen when people become misguided and propogate such ideas.  It also is a look at what happens when children are commodified, and adults become reliant on them.  In fact it is only late in the Film that the question of the child’s best interests impactfully come to light. Though there are haunting mystical elements in this beautifully-shot story, the true horror is what desperate people are capable of, a sobering message that we perhaps need a reminder of right now in this climate.

The Film features strong performances from its talented Ensemble, led by emerging talent Lefler, who is commanding at every turn.  A pleasant surprise also seeing screen legend Frances Fisher in a supporting role as Faye, Isla‘s grandmother.

VVS Films release THE KING TIDE in theatres across Canada Friday, April 26, 2024.