Cert 15
83 mins
BBFC advice: Contains strong sex
My life has been in a bit of turmoil lately so I had to hire Iona out for the second time on itunes, having only been able to watch its opening 20 minutes a couple of weeks ago.
And I am glad I did because this low-budget movie moved on from a rather sedate beginning to a crushing finale.
Scott Graham's film stars the impressive Ruth Negga as the title character who was named on the island of her birth.
More than 15 years after a swift departure in her teens, she is back with her son (Ben Gallagher) who doesn't look a lot younger than her.
Immediately, there is an strange undercurrent among the community.
Her father (Douglas Henshall) is glad to take her in but clearly there is past which must be reconciled.
The situation is then complicated further when her sister's disabled daughter (Sorcha Groundsell) develops a crush on her son.
This is Graham's second picture after the intriguing Shell which also used Scottish remoteness and solitude to fine effect.
There is a similar pattern here of bubbling emotions being held in check but I feel there is a bit more depth to Iona which is why I have given it an extra mark.
Now I would like a major producer to give Graham a chance. He is a talent who deserves a shot at the big time.
Reasons to watch: powerful drama with a remote and beautiful setting
Reasons to avoid: its gradual build-up is a tad frustrating
Laughs: none
Jumps: none
Vomit: none
Nudity: briefly
Overall rating: 7/10
Star tweet
Douglas Henshall Iona opens tomorrow across the UK. It's a small release. It's a small film. But it has a mighty heart. Support Indy filmmakers. Go see it.
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