The 2023 Canadian crime thriller The G, which holds a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, airs on Film4 tonight at 9pm. The film follows an elderly woman who seeks cold-blooded revenge after being placed into care by a corrupt legal guardian.
A Revenge Story with a Difference
Unlike most thrillers, the story does not centre on a highly-trained ex-military man committing crimes for the greater good. Instead, it follows Ann, a grandmother who is put into care by a corrupt legal guardian aiming to seize her property. Determined to settle the score, Ann and her granddaughter Emma set out to exact revenge on the guardian, willing to go to any lengths to reclaim the home that is rightfully hers.
The film was created by Karl R. Hearne, who wrote, directed and produced the project. It unfolds on the industrial outskirts of an unnamed city, yet the story draws on well-documented real-world scams that prey upon vulnerable and elderly people.
Inspired by Real Life
Hearne revealed that the central character was inspired by his own grandmother. Describing the real-life figure behind his G, he said: "A woman who, regardless of her age or situation, refuses to accept that her life is over."
Dale Dickey plays the wronged grandmother Ann Hunter, a role that has garnered widespread acclaim. One viewer shared on Rotten Tomatoes: "I went into this movie thinking I wouldn't like it because I read it was slow. The next thing I know, I'm at the end of the movie. There's not one thing I would change in this movie. The story was excellent and intriguing. I appreciated the strong, tough role of the leading actress which was performed to perfection."
Cast and Critical Reception
Also appearing in the production are Romane Denis as granddaughter Emma, Roc Lafortune as Joseph, Bruce Ramsay as Rivera and Jonathan Koensgen as Ralph. A further review said: "Absolutely loved this film. Dale Dickey was phenomenal. I've been a fan since My Name is Earl, and she doesn't disappoint. One of the best films I've seen this year."
One critic offered their verdict on the 'slow burner', writing: "A stark, unflinching thriller that transforms real-world horrors of elder exploitation into a chilling revenge saga. Slow-burning yet deeply affecting, it's an unforgettable reckoning with the predators who profit from society's most vulnerable." Others have been left wanting more, with one viewer declaring: "Phenomenal. Wish this were an ongoing series!"
The G airs live on Film4 at 9pm tonight. Alternatively, the film is available to buy on Amazon Prime and Apple TV.
