The review

We all know the cheesy Christmas crackers ‘Nativity’ and ‘Father Christmas’ but Jack Peagam gives us something different and hits the nail on the head with his acutely observed representation of a young girl’s excitement and impatience anticipating Christmas day in newly released, low budget, British film, Betrayal. The writers and directors of Betrayal are renowned for producing successful chilling thrillers so fellow short film fanatics were understandably sceptical about this foray into a new genre and a more socially realist piece.

To their delight, however, like ‘Paranoia’ and ‘Hack’, the cinematography is beautiful, keeping us entertained and curious over the choice of a seemingly incongruous title name right until the end. In fact, Time Out were so impressed by the beauty of Betrayal that they gave it four stars! And, yet again, Peagam has overcome the challenge of telling the narrative through little use of dialogue, and choosing a superb range of music which harmonizes with the mood and atmosphere succeeding in sustaining our attention.

The young Jennifer Woods, at just 6 years of age, and starring in only her second film, surprises us all in Betrayal with her precocious talent in adapting into her convincing role as a cheerful and lively daughter in a cosy family of three. Watch out Emma Watson! Her excellent ability to mould into her role enables us to empathise with her character as she pulls priceless expressions emphasizing her enjoyment of the traditional events leading up to the big day. Jennifer’s character is both energetic and delightful to observe and gives lightness to the film which takes an unexpected twist.

Woods is not the only star to shine in Betrayal, however, as talented, and also new to the industry actors Hannah Panton and Harry Cowan, show off their ability to make the transition from stage to screen in playing the kind and devoted parents of little Jennifer. The use of unknown actors gives the film a unique edge and is refreshing for us as spectators to watch the raw talent which they convey.

The film succeeds in representing a modern secular view on how families and children celebrate Christmas in 21st century Britain. Though Betrayal represents a rather cynical take on Christmas, Peagam still ensures that the ‘feel good family film’ is effectively presented through a number of traditional, cutesy scenarios. Of course it involves the indulgence of eating the chocolates from the calendar, and decorating the Christmas tree, but hearts totally melted when we watched the endearing scene of the father and daughter play in the snow together.

All of these scenarios emphasize the child’s enjoyment which intensifies her shock when she finds out something unnerving which will forever change her view on the festive celebration. Betrayal is a delight to watch with a twist which is both clever and realistic in dealing with common issues which can occur around Christmas and Peagam has proved that he can successfully diverse into a totally different genre.

This is the review in the Little White Lies format: