High Tension (aka Switchblade Romance)

Haute Tension

Alexandre Aja defined a new breed of horror by bringing the American slasher format into French cinema.

  • Director

    Alexandre Aja

  • With

    Cécile de France, Maïwenn, Philippe Nahon

  • France 2003. 91min

  • Digital 4K

  • Certificate

    18

  • English subtitles

A ridiculously violent slasher with a controversial twist, High Tension marked the New French Extremity’s pivot into pure horror, taking American influences and raising the terror not one, but several dozen notches. Marie (de France) and Alexia (Maïwenn), two besties taking a trip to a secluded cabin in the woods, are attacked relentlessly by a beastly killer.

Contains scenes of graphic violence that some viewers may find distressing.

The screening on Monday 9 May will feature a pre-recorded intro by author Alexandra West.