Uncovering Overlooked Gem: Natalie Erika James' Relic Shines Despite Pandemic Setbacks

In recent times, there has been a surge in articles highlighting films that were overlooked due to the impact of the global pandemic. Films like Run and The Guilty have been brought to the forefront, and now it's time to shine a spotlight on the Australian horror film Relic. Directed by Natalie Erika James, Relic marks her feature debut, with her second film Apartment 7A recently completed.

The story of Relic revolves around the disappearance of elderly mother Edna (played by Robyn Nevin), which leaves her daughter Kay (Emily Mortimer) and granddaughter Sam (Bella Heathcote) puzzled. When Edna reappears just as mysteriously as she vanished, Kay and Sam are faced with the challenge of dealing with her increasing dementia and erratic behavior. As the family grapples with the unsettling changes in Edna, they come to realize that there may be a sinister presence in their home seeking to take control.

Originally scheduled to be showcased at various prestigious film festivals, Relic had its premiere at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival. However, the onset of the coronavirus pandemic led to the cancellation of all film festivals, resulting in Relic not receiving the attention it truly deserved.Despite the limited exposure, Relic has garnered positive reviews from critics, boasting an impressive 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes based on 240 reviews.

The audience reception, however, paints a more divided picture with a 52% score. This indicates that while some viewers may not resonate with the film, it does not necessarily signify its quality. In fact, many suggest going into Relic without watching the trailer to fully immerse oneself in the experience.

For those eager to watch Relic, the film is currently available on Pathé Thuis, offering a gripping and thought-provoking viewing experience.