Watch The Gathering

The Gathering is a 2003 horror film directed by Brian Gilbert, based on the novel of the same name by Isobelle Carmody. The movie is set in a small Australian town and follows the story of a fourteen-year-old girl named Nathanial Canny (played by Christina Ricci) who moves to the town with her father after her mother's death. Nathaniel soon discovers that the town is hiding a dark secret as inexplicable events begin to occur.

The movie begins with Nathaniel's family - her father, Harry (played by Stephen Dillane), and her brother, Harry Junior (played by Harry Forrester) - moving to Cheshunt, a small town in rural Australia. Nathaniel is still grieving the loss of her mother and is struggling to adjust to her new surroundings. She finds solace in the company of an old man named Jack (played by Ioan Gruffudd), who lives in the woods near her new home. Jack is a recluse who is feared by the townspeople, but Nathaniel is drawn to him.

As Nathaniel settles into her new life, strange things begin to happen. She hears unusual noises in the woods, strange symbols start appearing on her bedroom walls, and she has terrifying nightmares. Nathaniel becomes convinced that there is something evil in the town and that Jack knows what it is. She sets out to uncover the truth with the help of her brother and a classmate, Harry Rackharrow (played by Robert Hardy).

The film's tension builds as Nathaniel and her friends discover that the town is controlled by a group of people called The Chain. The Chain are a mysterious religious cult who believe that they are the chosen ones and that they must ensure that the town remains pure. The cult is led by a sinister figure called The One (played by Simon Russell Beale), who has extraordinary supernatural powers.

As Nathaniel and her friends dig deeper into the cult's activities, they uncover a shocking truth about the town's history and the true nature of The Chain. The Gathering is a tense horror movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The film's well-written script, excellent acting, and spooky atmosphere make it a must-see for fans of horror and suspense.

Christina Ricci delivers an outstanding performance as Nathaniel, capturing the character's vulnerability and determination. She is the heart of the movie, and her journey is both compelling and terrifying. Simon Russell Beale is disturbingly convincing as The One, radiating a palpable sense of menace. Ioan Gruffudd is also excellent as Jack, bringing a quiet intensity and mystery to his role.

The film's cinematography is excellent, capturing the eerie beauty of the Australian countryside while creating a sense of foreboding. The Australian landscape is a character in its own right, contributing to the movie's haunting atmosphere.

Overall, The Gathering is a gripping and intense horror movie that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll. It's a must-see for fans of horror and suspense, and a great introduction to the work of Isobelle Carmody.