Get Away Review

An English-Irish family, a summer holiday, and a charming B&B nestled in the idyllic Swedish countryside — what could possibly go wrong? Everything, according to Nick Frost.

Get Away, director Steffen Haars‘s latest comedy horror film, follows the Smith family as they embark on a much-needed escape to the remote Swedish island of Svalta. Starring Nick Frost as Richard, Aisling Bea as Susan, and featuring Sebastian Croft and Maisie Ayres as their children Sam and Jessie, the family’s vacation begins with high hopes but quickly takes a sinister turn. Arriving amidst preparations for a local festival steeped in dark history, the Smiths find themselves grappling with a series of bizarre and unsettling events. At first, they dismiss the strange events surrounding them, chalking them up to cultural differences or harmless eccentricity.

Determined to enjoy their holiday regardless, they embrace what the island has to offer. But as the festival draws closer and the oddities escalate, the family begins to realize that the town’s dark past is far from forgotten. And that’s when the truth finally becomes unavoidable: a serial killer is on the loose, and the island’s cheerful façade hides something far more menacing.

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The film balances its horror elements with humour, creating an entertaining blend of tension and comedy. Frost and Bea shine as ‘Mummy’ and ‘Daddy’, the family’s quirky yet lovable anchors, and their on-screen chemistry brings warmth and relatability to the story. The supporting cast also adds to the film’s charm, contributing to its moments of levity amidst the chaos. The scenic backdrop of Svalta enhances the film even more, with its incredible views and picturesque isolation that heighten both the beauty of the island and the unease in the viewer. Consider it as Frost’s answer to Midsommar by Ari Aster, in a way.

However, while Get Away succeeds in delivering laughs, its storytelling falters. The film sets up an intriguing narrative but struggles to maintain it, ultimately undermining its impact with an abrupt and underdeveloped final twist. Certain plot elements linger too long without a payoff, leaving the audience questioning their relevance. That said, it still manages to be an enjoyable watch, particularly for those seeking something light-hearted without veering into ‘cheesy’ territory. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but its humour and laid-back charm make it an entertaining addition to the comedy-horror genre. While not groundbreaking, it’s a fun, easy-going film that’s worth a watch — just don’t expect anything too memorable.