The appropriately named hard candy of the title is precocious 14 year old American girl Hayley Stark. Through an internet chat website Hayley arranges a meeting with thirties something fashion photographer, Jeff Kohlver. After meeting at a hang-out called Nighthawk, Jeff invites her back to his place, which as well as being his home he uses as his photographic studio.

Hayley decides in her mind that Jeff is a pedophile, which he proves to be. This is what he does, lures young girls back to his flat to have his way with them. Once she is ensconced in his house, Hayley exacts upon him the most extreme forms of revenge. She is intent on him suffering at least some of the pain that he has inflicted on his victims, and to take responsibility for his actions.

‘Hard Candy’ was a brutal movie going experience. Director David Slade with writer Brian Nelson take on the subject of pedophilia head on. The tension never lets up. The camera work (cinematographer- Jo Willems) was harsh with plenty of close-ups, and also the use of shaky hand-held camera footage. The setting was claustrophobic with all the main action taking place inside Jeff’s house. The films’ relentless, driving action was Hayley’s determination to have Jeff face himself, and take responsibility for his actions. The suspense was well built-up, with the action taking unpredictable turns.

Slade exacted great performances from his two leads. Ellen Page is extraordinary as the disturbed, fierce Hayley, and Patrick Wilson was strong as Jeff who is tormented for his sins. Sandra Oh plays the only other significant role as Jeff’s nosey, concerned neighbour, Judy.