Written and directed by Govind Chandran, co-written by leading actress Kelsey Cooke, when a compassionate helpline counsellor begins grow concerned for the safety of one of her clients, she’s forced to decide whether to trust her instincts or follow protocol. Also starring: Fran St Clair and Olivia D’Lima. Safe was made possible with funding from The Isle of Man Arts Council.

When you’re attempting to build an atmosphere that’s complex, sincere and meaningful, the quality of the aesthetic is always going to be a big factor. Govind Chandran, along with cinematographer Jamie Laxton, clearly had a fantastic grasp on that challenge as the visual for Safe is immediately strong. There’s a superb eye for detail, there’s a real crispness to the colours and grain, setting a compelling atmosphere, with a surprising level of foreboding.

That’s one of many clever choices that Chandran makes with Safe, the directorial style is extremely effective at communicating the sadness, turmoil and stress which are headed our way. That anticipation then intensifies it further to drive home the emotional weight to this story. Something that’s done really well as it never feels too heavy or overwhelming, it’s the grounded reality that makes Safe hit harder.

It’s a very poignant and important topic, one that requires a certain amount of sensitivity and respect to do justice to how domestic abuse, and the mental health issues stemming from it, are something that countless people are struggling with on a daily basis. Chandran and Kelsey Cooke created a wonderful example of how to portray the subject in a thoughtful way. Especially in keeping it simple, minimising the setup, not unlike how it was used in The Guilty, to keep the focus in one place, with no distractions.

What that means is pushing viewers to listen more intently, and thereby packing a punch as each red flag falls and builds to a deeply affecting finale. Chandran and Cooke truly emphasise the importance of spotting signs of domestic violence and abuse. As well as keenly portraying how difficult it can be to help, while also being vital not to give up and continue to provide space for people to ask for help. It’s an incredibly frustrating experience, which Cooke captures perfectly with her performance.

Cooke brings a complex mix of confidence and vulnerability to Iris, allowing her to bring both a fierce determination and a great deal of anxiety and concern. She has a very friendly, approachable air to her, as well as bringing through that classic professional tone. You then see that broken down slightly as time goes on and she’s increasingly worried for Sophie’s (Fran St Clair) safety, creating an earnest tension. One that’s elevated by the voice performance from St Clair, it’s filled with defeat and desperation. It’s intensely vulnerable and immediately provokes your protective instincts.

Safe is profoundly heartbreaking, Govind Chandran and Kelsey Cooke did a fantastic job of capturing how truly difficult and crucial those moments can be. Chandran’s graceful direction allows an organic, gripping tension to grow, avoiding any attempt to over dramatize the story and holding onto its earnest, poignant foundation. The visual quality is superb, the sharp clarity of the aesthetic really helps to boost the film’s strongly affecting presence. It holds a heavy air of sadness which is balanced well with Cooke’s terrific and determined performance. You can feel the sincere effort that went into creating a thoughtful exploration of recognising the signs of domestic abuse and helping where you can.

Verdict: ✯✯✯✯✯ | 10/10

Safe premieres in London at the Big Fridge Film Festival on September 7th before embarking on its festival run | For more info follow Safe‘s official Instagram