"Jaula" (Or) "The Chalk Line" is a Spanish horror film released in 2022 that tells the story of a young married couple who adopt a girl they find wandering alone on the road.
Directed by Ignacio Tatay in his feature film directorial debut, the screenplay was co-written by Isabel Peña. The film was produced by Carolina Bang, Álex de la Iglesia, and Araceli Pérez-Rastrilla.
Starring Elena Anaya, Pablo Molinero, Eva Tennear, Eva Llorach, Carlos Santos, Esther Acebo, Eloy Azorín, Mona Martínez, Sonia Almarcha, Pau Roca, Cayetana Campos, and Rodrigo Sáenz de Heredia, "Jaula" follows the journey of Paula (Elena Anaya) and her husband (Pablo Molinero) after they encounter a young girl (Eva Tennear) on the road. Two weeks later, they decide to let her temporarily stay with them when no one comes forward to claim her. However, the girl harbors a dark obsession with a chalk square painted on the floor, fearing a monster will punish her if she steps outside its boundaries. As Paula develops a strong bond with the girl, she embarks on a dark path to uncover the enigmatic secrets of the girl's past.
Critics have expressed positive opinions about "Jaula" (Or) "The Chalk Line"
AccionCine praises the film, acknowledging some minor flaws but hailing it as a refreshing and curious experience, with terror that is unexpectedly close or perhaps more supernatural than anticipated. Gives the film an impressive 8.5 out of 10, describing it as a near-perfect thriller, noting the use of light and still objects to create a sense of foreboding in each scene.
A Celebration of Cinema lauds the performances of Pablo Molinero and Elena Anaya, particularly commending Anaya for her complex and believable portrayal. The reviewer also highlights Ignacio Tatay's impressive directorial debut. Common Sense Media highlights the strong acting, well-crafted narrative, and thrilling elements of the film but mentions that a shift occurs in the storyline after the first big reveal, altering the tone and overall feel. Heaven of Horror emphasizes the slow-burn start of the film, which leads to an absolutely terrifying and true story-inspired conclusion, making it a must-watch for fans of thrillers and mysteries.
While "Jaula" (Or) "The Chalk Line" received positive feedback, some reviewers point out minor inconsistencies and unanswered questions surrounding the villains in the film. Nevertheless, the intense suspense, engaging storyline, and captivating performances make it a worthwhile watch for thriller and mystery enthusiasts.
"Jaula" (Or) "The Chalk Line" offers a gripping and intense foreign horror experience, weaving together whispering conversations, strange happenings, and a pervasive sense of dread. The film keeps viewers hooked from beginning to end, delivering blood-curdling horror once the purpose of the chalk lines is revealed.
Jaula (Or) The Chalk Line (2022) - info
- Release date: 29 April 2023
- Genre: Horror, Mystery, Thriller
- Director: Ignacio Tatay
- Writer: Isabel Peña, Ignacio Tatay
- Stars: Elena Anaya, Pablo Molinero, Eva Tennear