Watch The Cry of the Owl

The Cry of the Owl is a psychological thriller from 2009 based on the novel by Patricia Highsmith. The film explores themes of obsession, isolation, and the blurred lines between reality and perception. The movie follows Robert Forrester (played by Paddy Considine), a troubled man who has recently moved to a small town in Pennsylvania to escape his past. After his marriage fell apart, Robert becomes a recluse, spending his days drawing and staring out of his window. His life takes a turn when he becomes fixated on Jennifer (played by Julia Stiles), a beautiful woman who lives nearby. He starts watching her from a distance and eventually breaks into her house to leave her anonymous notes.

Jennifer, who is going through a difficult divorce herself, initially finds Robert's attention flattering but soon becomes scared when she realizes the extent of his fixation. She tries to make him understand that his behavior is not normal, but he becomes increasingly delusional and obsessive.

Things become even more complicated when Greg, Jennifer's ex-husband, goes missing, and all signs point to Robert as the prime suspect. The police start investigating, and Robert's carefully constructed facade starts to crumble as his past is revealed.

The Cry of the Owl is a slow burn, character-driven thriller that relies on atmospheric tension rather than jump scares. The cinematography captures the desolate, snowy landscape of Pennsylvania perfectly, and the score creates a sense of unease and discomfort.

Paddy Considine gives a subtle and nuanced performance as Robert, who is both sympathetic and disturbing. He manages to convey the character's inner turmoil and fragility without ever becoming over the top. Julia Stiles is also excellent as Jennifer, a woman who is trying to hold on to her dignity and sanity in the face of Robert's obsession. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable, and the film smartly avoids cliches by not turning their relationship into a typical romance.

Karl Pruner, who plays Greg, provides a solid contrast to Robert's character, showing the toxic masculinity and entitlement that can drive some men to violence. The supporting cast is also great, with Caroline Dhavernas delivering a standout performance as Robert's former lover.

The Cry of the Owl is not a perfect film, and some viewers might find the ending unsatisfying. However, it is a thought-provoking and affecting thriller that explores the dark corners of the human psyche. It is a testament to Highsmith's work and a reminder of how a good adaptation can elevate a story to new heights.

In conclusion, The Cry of the Owl is a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and character-driven dramas. It is a haunting and memorable film that will leave you pondering long after the credits roll.

The Cry of the Owl is a 2009 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 39 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.9.