Many people think nuisance noise is a minor issue, something only those with too much leisure time complain about. But for many, it’s a serious problem. Constant noise can disrupt sleep, harm mental health, and even affect heart health. Thousands of individuals face this struggle daily, dealing with relentless noise that intrudes into their homes and makes it hard to find peace. It can create lasting trauma that sticks with them for years.
If you’ve faced this kind of noise, watching Jed Hart’s thriller might be tough. Instead of cranking up the sound, Hart shifts the tone and uses repetition effectively. This approach creates a genuine feeling of the experience. Even someone new to this issue might find it unsettling. You might stay to root for the main character, Nicky (played by Lyndsey Marshal), or perhaps you hope she finds a way to take charge after your own similar experiences.
Rather than going for a typical horror approach, Hart focuses on character development and realism. While there are moments of extreme behavior, they’re dealt with carefully. The film delves into Nicky’s psychological journey, showcasing how the noise impacts her life. It also weaves a story about bullying and its effects on both victims and communities, highlighting the potential consequences for the bullies themselves.
To connect with Nicky, Hart provides a glimpse into her life. She’s a nurse in geriatrics, recently grieving her mother’s death. Though she feels stress, she enjoys a simple home life filled with cooking, listening to podcasts, watching snooker, reading, and spending time with her fluffy tabby cat, Reggie. These details emphasize how much her home means to her. As the noise escalates, Nicky becomes less likable, yet Marshal makes her relatable.
Along with the noise issue, Restless touches on the everyday challenges women face, the struggles of underfunded social care, and the dynamics within housing estates. While nothing in the film feels groundbreaking, Hart adds cinematic touches, like when Nicky looks up and sees clouds overhead, symbolizing her suffocating situation. The problems extend beyond just loud neighbors; they also show the people who exploit or ignore the issues. It portrays a small, petty world where real hope seems lost, yet it reflects the reality many face.
Reviewed on: 01 Mar 2025
