Don’t Tell a Soul
Movie Trailer
Release Date
January 15, 2021
Genre
Thriller, Drama
Cast & Crew
- Jack Dylan Grazer as Joey
- Fionn Whitehead as Matt
- Rainn Wilson as Mr. Hamby
- Mena Suvari as Carol
Director
Alex McAulay
Other Movies Director is Known For
- A House on the Bayou (2021)
Producer
Megan Carr, Chris Mangano, Merry-Kay Poe
Writer
Alex McAulay
Budget
$3 million (estimated)
Production Company
Unbridled Films, Saban Films
Running Time
83 minutes
Languages
English
Maturity Rating
R
Content Advisory
- Violence
- Strong language
- Psychological themes
- Disturbing scenes
Movie Story
“Don’t Tell a Soul” is a tense thriller that explores the moral complexities of desperation, loyalty, and survival. The film centers around two teenage brothers, Joey (Jack Dylan Grazer) and Matt (Fionn Whitehead), who find themselves caught in a downward spiral of criminal activity. After their father’s death and their mother’s illness, the brothers resort to theft to help make ends meet, but a robbery goes horribly wrong when they are caught in the act by a security guard named Mr. Hamby (Rainn Wilson).
As the boys flee the scene, Mr. Hamby pursues them, only to fall into a deep, abandoned well in the woods. Trapped and injured, he pleads with the brothers for help. Joey, the younger and more compassionate of the two, is torn between his instincts to help and his fear of his domineering older brother, Matt, who sees leaving the man in the well as their only way to escape punishment.
The movie’s tension escalates as the brothers argue over what to do with Mr. Hamby, revealing deep-seated issues between them. Joey, wracked with guilt, sneaks out to bring food and water to the trapped man, forming a reluctant bond with him. But as secrets are revealed and the true nature of each character comes to light, the situation spirals out of control, leading to a shocking and unpredictable conclusion.
“Don’t Tell a Soul” keeps viewers on edge with its claustrophobic atmosphere and intense performances, particularly from Jack Dylan Grazer and Rainn Wilson. The film delves into the psychological toll of their predicament, exploring themes of trust, deception, and the consequences of moral compromise.
Special Effects
The film’s special effects are minimal but effective, particularly in the portrayal of Mr. Hamby’s entrapment in the well. The use of practical effects and the confined setting enhance the film’s tense atmosphere, making the audience feel the desperation of the characters.
Box Office Performance
“Don’t Tell a Soul” had a limited release and was made available primarily through video-on-demand platforms. While it didn’t achieve significant box office success, it received attention for its gripping story and strong performances, particularly on streaming services.
Filming Locations
- Louisville, Kentucky, USA
Notable Quotes
- “We can’t leave him down there to die.” – Joey
- “Sometimes, you have to do the wrong thing to survive.” – Matt
Behind-the-Scenes
Director Alex McAulay was inspired to write “Don’t Tell a Soul” by his interest in the psychological dynamics of young siblings facing extreme circumstances. The film was shot on location in Kentucky, with the well being a key element designed to enhance the story’s tension.
Awards
- N/A
Final Verdict
“Don’t Tell a Soul” is a taut, suspenseful thriller that explores the dark side of human nature through the lens of sibling rivalry and moral dilemmas. The film benefits from strong performances by its cast, especially Rainn Wilson, who brings a nuanced portrayal of a man caught in an impossible situation. With its intense atmosphere and thought-provoking themes, “Don’t Tell a Soul” is a gripping watch that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
IMDb Rating
5.9/10