Rosamund Pike is back on the big screen with her latest thriller, “Hallow Road,” and early reviews are overwhelmingly positive. The film, which also stars Matthew Rhys, has already premiered at SXSW 2025 and is set to release in UK cinemas on May 16. Garnering a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from ten early reviews, the anticipation for “Hallow Road” is mounting as audiences await this intense cinematic experience.
The story begins with Pike and Rhys portraying parents who receive a distressing late-night call from their teenage daughter. She informs them that she has hit a pedestrian, setting off a chain of events that could unravel their family. As the couple rushes to the scene, they begin to suspect they aren’t alone, introducing an immediate tension that carries throughout the film.
Critics have praised Pike’s performance, noting how her involvement elevates the film beyond a simple suspenseful thriller. One review highlights her high-intensity portrayal, stating, “Essentially a two-hander, the movie might have been merely a minimalist exercise — albeit an impressive one — in mounting dread. But high-intensity performances from Rosamund Pike and Matthew Rhys elevate the suspenseful thriller, its psychological grounding gradually expanding into a darker mythic realm.”
Another review applauds the film’s simplicity and its reliance on the captivating performances of Pike and Rhys. “Hallow Road really thrives when at its most simple. Sticking with Pike and Rhys in a simple windshield shot, cutting only to other tight, static angles from inside the car, allows the pair to carry the film,” said the critic. They added that the visual elements complement the tense journey effectively.
Audiences are also drawn to the intricate script by William Gillies, described as an “intricate puzzle” that keeps viewers engaged with well-timed revelations. Another review describes it as “engaging, thrilling, and a little weird,” highlighting the skillful sound design and creative cinematography that elevate the film beyond its claustrophobic setting.
The film’s merit isn’t isolated to its suspense alone. Critics have appreciated its exploration of complex parent-child relationships, touching on hard questions typically left unaddressed. “Too often, stories can gloss over the intricate complexities of parent-child relationships, but Hallow Road gets to the heart of the hard questions we rarely ask or engage with,” one review remarked, underscoring the film’s emotional depth.
Directed by Babak Anvari, known for his previous work on the 2019 horror film “Wounds,” “Hallow Road” showcases his talent for creating intense and engaging narratives. With Rosamund Pike leading the charge, the film comfortably positions itself to captivate audiences with its expertly crafted suspense and emotional resonance.
As the release date approaches, excitement continues to build. “Hallow Road” is poised to deliver a thrilling, introspective ride that audiences won’t soon forget, bolstered by Rosamund Pike’s exceptional performance.
