Exploring Connection and Quirkiness in Louis Paxton’s Dark Comedy, ‘The Incomer’ at Sundance Film Festival
Sundance Festival Premiere: The Incomer
The Incomer, a film that channels the spirit of Scottish director Bill Forsyth, notably his classic Local Hero, has made its debut at the Sundance Film Festival. This intriguing folk-horror comedy features characters reminiscent of British comedy icons The League of Gentlemen, particularly the duo Tubbs and Edward, who zealously guard their remote grocery store.
The film, directed by Louis Paxton, occupies a distinctive spot in Sundance’s World Dramatic Competition, comparable to offbeat selections like Eagle vs Shark (2007) and Brian and Charles (2022). It embodies the essence of British island comedies, drawing on influences from classics such as I Know Where I’m Going and Whisky Galore!, while simultaneously subverting the archetypes seen in The Wicker Man.
The narrative centers on Isla (Gayle Rankin) and Sandy (Grant O’Rourke), siblings residing alone on the seemingly uninhabited Gull Island after their parents’ disappearance. Their dynamic is fraught with tension, particularly highlighted by Isla’s dominating demeanor over her naïve brother. A particularly humorous scene involves Isla confiscating a long rubber dildo that washes up on the shore, much to Sandy’s dismay.
Adding a layer of complexity is the character Daniel (Domhnall Gleeson), a land recovery coordinator dispatched by his intimidating boss, Rose (Michelle Gomez). His arrival sets off a series of events that challenge the siblings’ isolated existence as he navigates the delicate balance between his responsibilities and the peculiar charm of the island.
The film’s final act escalates the conflict, presenting Rose as an exaggerated authority figure, reminiscent of a Donald Trump-like personality on Gull Island. While some may find this climax less satisfying, it ultimately culminates in a reflective conclusion that addresses the film’s undercurrents of sadness and concludes on a surprisingly uplifting note.
Title: The Incomer
Festival: Sundance (World Dramatic Competition)
Director-Screenwriter: Louis Paxton
Cast: Domhnall Gleeson, Gayle Rankin, Grant O’Rourke, Michelle Gomez, John Hannah
Sales Agent: Charades
Running Time: 1 hr 41 mins
