Take From Me, the feature debut from writer and director West Eldredge, is a slow-burning horror-thriller that weaves grief, temptation, and psychological tension into a story that sticks with you. Originally known under the title Love Dogs, the film follows John, a widowed Appalachian man portrayed with quiet intensity by Ethan McDowell. Still reeling from loss, John finds himself drawn to a mysterious young woman, Elizabeth, played by Kyla Dyan, who purchases his old farmhouse. As John becomes increasingly tethered to her, a local disappearance unsettles the town, leading the police captain to suspect a darker presence lurking beneath the surface of their seemingly quiet community.
Eldredge’s direction stands out for its restraint. Rather than relying on conventional horror tropes or jump scares, he allows the story to unfold naturally, building tension through mood, pacing, and atmosphere. The film’s rural setting, captured beautifully by cinematographer Kenneth Keeler, feels both expansive and claustrophobic, reflecting John’s emotional state and the slow encroachment of paranoia. The score by Edward Lyle Barton and the careful sound design heighten suspense without ever overpowering the story, adding layers to an already immersive viewing experience.
McDowell delivers a standout performance, balancing vulnerability and guardedness to create a deeply human protagonist. The supporting cast, including Dwayne A. Thomas as Abe Jackson and Marlowe Holden as Vanessa provide depth to the story, making each character feel lived-in and real rather than simply plot devices. Their understated performances enhance the sense of unease, grounding the psychological tension in believable relationships and interactions.
Despite working with a sub-80k budget, Take From Me carries a level of polish and care often reserved for larger studio productions. Editing by Vincent F. Welch and visual effects by Matthew Duerr contribute to a seamless experience, while the film’s design and makeup work underscore the Southern Gothic elements that give the story its distinct tone.
Award recognition has followed the film, with Eldredge winning Best Feature Film at the Red Rose Film Festival and McDowell earning Best Actor at the Romford Horror Festival. Audience acclaim at the Alexandria Film Festival further highlights the impact of this intimate, unsettling debut.
Take From Me is not only a gripping thriller but also an exploration of grief, desire, and the unseen forces that shape our lives. It rewards patience, asking viewers to sit with ambiguity and unease while delivering moments of true tension and emotional resonance. Available on Fandango at Home and Amazon on August 26th, this debut proves West Eldredge is a filmmaker to watch, delivering an independent thriller that feels both haunting and profoundly human.
Jessie Hobson