Watch Initiation

Initiation is a riveting psychological thriller from 1987, directed by Michael Pearce and featuring a talented cast including Bruno Lawrence, Rodney Harvey, and Arna-Maria Winchester. Set in a small town enveloped by mystery, the film takes viewers on a dark and disturbing journey as characters are drawn into a web of secrets and violence.

The story centers around Jake, portrayed by the brilliant Bruno Lawrence, a middle-aged man haunted by his troubled past. Living a solitary and reclusive life, he spends his days as the caretaker of a remote motel. Unbeknownst to the world, Jake harbors an obsessive secret - a collection of grotesque paintings and sketches depicting his most intimate desires and darkest fantasies.

One fateful day, a troubled teenager named Danny, played by Rodney Harvey, unexpectedly arrives at the motel seeking refuge. Haunted by his own demons, Danny is desperate to escape the demons of his past that haunt him. Seeing a kindred spirit in Danny, Jake cautiously befriends the young man, offering him shelter and odd jobs around the motel.

As their bond grows, Jake decides to reveal his secret paintings to Danny, a decision that sets off a chain of events that will forever alter the lives of those involved. The disturbing artwork sparks a dangerous obsession within Danny, leading him down a path of self-destruction and cruelty as he seeks to fulfill his own twisted desires.

Simultaneously, Arna-Maria Winchester's character, Sarah, enters the picture. Sarah is a local photographer documenting the hidden beauty of the small town. Intrigued by the legends and mysteries surrounding the motel, she decides to stay there temporarily, unaware of the dark forces at play.

As Sarah spends more time at the motel, she becomes drawn into the escalating turmoil between Jake and Danny. Her curiosity pushes her to delve deeper into their pasts, unraveling a dark history of violence, abuse, and mind games. Each revelation raises more questions, leaving the characters and viewers alike on edge.

Initiation skillfully explores themes of obsession, power, and manipulation, offering a chilling examination of the human psyche. The film delves into the darkest corners of the human mind, always challenging the audience's expectations and leaving them on the edge of their seats.

Bruno Lawrence's performance as Jake is captivating, capturing the complexity and vulnerability of a deeply troubled man. His portrayal creates an empathetic connection with the audience, making them question their own boundaries of morality and understanding.

Rodney Harvey delivers a haunting performance as Danny, expertly conveying the character's internal struggles and descent into depravity. His transformation from a lost, damaged soul to a tormentor is a chilling portrayal of the destructive power of obsession.

Arna-Maria Winchester brings a fresh perspective to the film as Sarah, bringing empathy and determination to her character. As she unravels the truth, her journey becomes a different kind of initiation, forcing her to confront her own demons.

Initiation is not a film for the faint of heart. With its dark themes and intense atmosphere, it immerses viewers in a world where the line between victim and villain blurs. Michael Pearce's direction, combined with the exceptional performances of the cast, creates an unforgettable cinematic experience that will leave audiences questioning their own perceptions of morality and the human capacity for darkness.

In conclusion, Initiation from 1987 stands as a powerful and disturbing psychological thriller, exploring the depths of obsession and manipulation. With its captivating performances, atmospheric direction, and exploration of the human psyche, the film is a gripping exploration of dark desires and the consequences that follow.