Red Road is a slow-burning, atmospheric thriller that takes place in Glasgow, Scotland. Jackie, the protagonist, works as a CCTV operator in a surveillance center, monitoring the streets of the city. She is introverted and keeps a watchful eye on everything that happens in her sector, but at the same time, she remains disconnected from the people she observes on the screens.
One day, Jackie sees a man on one of her monitors whom she recognizes as Clyde, a man from her past whom she thought she would never see again. It is soon revealed that Clyde was involved in a terrible incident many years before that left Jackie traumatized and unable to cope with her emotions. Now that she has seen him again, she becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with Clyde, who seems to have come back into her life for a reason.
As the tension builds, Jackie's past is slowly uncovered, and we discover how she has been haunted by her memories for years. She is a complex character, strong and capable on the surface, but deeply vulnerable underneath. As she starts to pursue Clyde, we see the contradictions of her personality and the demons that she is battling.
Red Road is a psychological thriller that is both intense and thought-provoking. It explores themes of trauma, guilt, and redemption, and features strong performances from its cast, particularly from Kate Dickie, who delivers a powerful portrayal of Jackie. The film is a masterclass in slow-burning suspense, with a haunting score and moody cinematography that add to its sense of foreboding. Ultimately, Red Road is a gripping, emotionally charged movie that will stay with you long after the credits roll.