Talk to Me marks a resounding "HIT" in modern horror, defining itself as an exceptionally resounding breakthrough in the genre. The film beautifully encapsulates Australian culture while seamlessly blending important contemporary themes such as social media, mobile phones, and viral footage, highlighting an ever-changing threat in today's world. In depth it explores connection, suicide, moving on, friendships, trust, and family.

The score, and dark, impactful noises contribute to the suspense and dread, enhancing this encapsulating story. The characters, portrayed with accurate representation of modern teenagers, add layers of authenticity and relatability. The plot offers a breath of fresh air to the possession genre, transforming Talk to Me form horror into a daring, and immersive thriller.

The performances are compelling, pulling the audience into the movie right from the opening scene. The scenes featuring Riley (Joe Bird) when possessed and becoming relentlessly violent are brutally effective, creating moments that strike at you repeatedly, tempting your stomach while bracing for the seemingly inevitable critical blow.

An interesting aspect is the clarity and direction of the story, coupled with tempting openness. The discovery from the teenagers that ninety seconds is the optimal time for a spirit or entity to "Let them In" without succumbing to the spirit, and becoming unstable, and mentally unhinged. But this could have branched into so many more layers of the plot. The potential to want to know whether spirits can take over and claim a living host if it the candles are not blown out? Or a person supersedes the time limit? Whether younger or older people are affected differently? The randomisation of the spirit, and of course how good and evil entities manipulate their mind?

The calling of spirits with an embalmed hand of a psychic or "satanist" is a mouth-watering, and unique concept, and the filmmakers should be applauded for this fresh take on speaking with the dead as it captures all the right spooky, and unsettling vibes.

"Talk to Me" stands out as one of the best horror films of present times featuring a completely unknown cast and young, inspiring directors. It's a film that engrosses and engages, the last time I felt this reminiscent of the same alertness and impact was a few years back when I first viewed Sinister. I truly hope this idea blossoms into a sequel or even prequel. Nevertheless, I truly believe Talk to Me sets the benchmark of just how good low-budget films can turn out to be.

9/10.