Saint Clare – Review

I couldn’t attend Frightfest where Saint Clare had it’s UK premiere, so huge thanks to Aim Publicity for sending it across to me so I could enjoy my own mini horror festival at home!

Saint Clare, directed by award winning Italian film director and screenwriter Mitzi Peirone stars Bella Thorne as out titular character is an atmospheric thriller that blends elements of Southern Gothic noir and psychological horror with just a hint of “yellow”.

The film is based on Don Roff’s novel *Clare at Sixteen* and follows Clare Bleecker, a young woman in a small town who seems to live a secret life as the horror equivalent of Batgirl, moonlighting as a vigilante killer, targeting those she believes are morally corrupt. 

Bella Thorne carries the film superbly as Clare, the switch between sweet girl next door to a lioness stalking it’s prey is so smooth you hardly even notice it. The supporting cast are also fantastic, with Frank Whaley’s Bob bringing a subtle comic relief whilst also reminding me a little of Dexter’s spirit guiding light.

Director Mitzi Peirone’s visual style is beautiful. Gritty reality mixes with Giallo like supernatural/religious elements seamlessly and the lighting is sublime throughout.

Saint Clare is a visually stunning film that delivers an unsettling story in a fully engaging and unpredictable way.  It’s not perfect, with a couple of pacing issues and very slight character bloat here and there but I can see this becoming many peoples favourite film of the year. It’s definitely up there for me.

Saint Clare had its UK Premiere at FrightFest 2024 and will be released on digital from 101 Films – date to be confirmed.

Here’s a sneaky look at one scene from the film