A Host of Sparrows

A Host of Sparrows is a 2019 mystery-thriller film written and directed by Brian A. Metcalf. The movie opens with Jack, a former convict who has been released from prison after serving time for a crime he committed when he was younger. Despite his initial resolve to go straight and leave his past behind, Jack soon finds himself in a precarious financial situation. Desperate to make a fresh start in Florida, Jack begins to scheme a heist, stealing a significant sum of money from his former associates. However, his plans are soon derailed when he's approached by his former boss, Victor. Victor, it seems, has a personal stake in protecting the daughter he has with a woman named Lucy, a person Jack is unfamiliar with. Victor has learned that Lucy has a new boyfriend who seems too perfect to be true, and he believes his family's safety is at risk. Victor asks Jack to take a detour on his way to Florida to meet Lucy and protect her, promising a substantial sum of money for his services. Despite his reservations, Jack agrees to Victor's request, and soon finds himself in the small town where Lucy lives. After meeting Lucy's suspicious boyfriend, Victor's fears seem to be validated, and he convinces Jack to take Lucy to the local bed and breakfast to keep a closer eye on her until the situation resolves itself. As fate would have it, a severe storm hits the town, forcing Jack and Lucy to take refuge at the B and B. To their surprise, they soon discover that they are not alone. The B and B is run by a quirky owner, along with five other guests: Sarah, a reclusive novelist, Rachel, a free-spirited young woman, Tom, a charming and charismatic individual, Laura, a grieving mother, and Joe, a quiet and reserved old man. As the night wears on, and the storm intensifies, the group begins to realize that they have more in common than they initially thought. It becomes apparent that their lives are all connected by a tragic event that occurred eleven years earlier, resulting in a murder that has left a lasting impact on their town. Initially, the group is wary of each other, but as the evening progresses, they begin to open up and share their stories. Jack, still trying to protect Lucy and earn his money, keeps his true identity and intentions hidden from the others. However, as they begin to trust each other, they also start to uncover dark secrets about their past and the events that led to the tragic murder. As the storm rages on outside, the tension builds up inside the B and B. The group starts to suspect that one of their own might be involved in the murder, and that the killer among them might be the perfect target for their anger and frustration. The situation becomes increasingly deadly as the night wears on, and the stakes are heightened. A Host of Sparrows is a taut and suspenseful thriller that explores the complexities of human relationships and the devastating consequences of past deeds. The film's slow-burning tension is skillfully crafted, keeping the viewer on the edge of their seat as they try to piece together the mysteries of the past and the present. Throughout the movie, the characters' backstories are expertly woven together, creating a rich tapestry of secrets, lies, and unexpected connections. The cast delivers solid performances, with standout roles from Brian A. Metcalf, who also wrote and directed the film, and the rest of the talented ensemble. Ultimately, A Host of Sparrows is a gripping and emotional ride that keeps viewers guessing until the very end. It's a testament to the power of storytelling, the human capacity for redemption, and the devastating consequences of our actions. Despite its small-town setting and intricate plot twists, the movie packs a big punch, exploring themes that resonate long after the credits roll.