I watched this without knowing what it really was about. Saying that I was very surprised with the quality of the acting and production never having heard of any of the actors involved. The story grabs you right away and guides you through this journey of a girl that lives like a hermit because of a medical oddity she gained after puberty, she emits pheromones that effects anyone around her until she meets a man who is unaffected by her. She begins a relationship for the first time since her parents died. He has a medical problem, he cannot smell anything. She winds up trusting him and you find out he is not the man she thought he was. Nicely told story that ends unexpectedly. I did think this was going to be a thriller/horror movie but was pleasantly surprised that it wasn't.
19 Reviews
Pre-#MeToo adult fairytale. A near miss.
howardvause22 October 2019
Prettily shot and enjoyable adult-fairytale indie. Competent lead performances and an unusual score that - along with Direction - keeps the film feeling lightweight. It's a pre-#MeToo film and it shows. The premise is full of promise but avoids the deep, dark, dangerous waters of male/female sexual power dynamics. The hurried and predictable ending doesn't stand up to scrutiny and the supporting cast is a little weak. But worth seeing - and a great choice of film for a young couple to watch together. 6.5/10
Made a nice change
dnl_hggns5 October 2021
Not a horror or thriller, more adult fairytale
amesmonde20 December 2015
Warning: Spoilers
Leigh lives secluded and isolated in the mountains woods, normalcy is in sight when a stranger is unaffected by her affliction.
Not be be confused with cleavage packed Siren (2011). Jesse Peyronel's 2013 Siren is a lost gem, a finely executed indie film from Osiris Entertainment that has managed to stay hidden away like its security surveyed main character. Directed and written by Peyronel it's a slow burning contemporary dark fairytale with widow-like imagery.
Opening with a voice over that says, "Once upon a time..." a flower and candle filled large house, there's a flashback to a boys encounter with a showered with gifts (well cast) young girl called Leigh. The set up is wonderfully played out by the child actors who set the stage of what's to come. The captivating Ali Larter-like Vinessa Shaw (of the Hills Have Eyes rehash) holds attention throughout, her blood is being bottled due to its attractive pheromone powers. She is cursed, everyone can't help but fall in love with her and their life is subsequently turned upside down. However, charming Robert Kazinsky (of Pacific Rim fame) is immune to her allure having lost his sense of smell. With a dodgy perfume company over arching the proceedings it gives this Posion Ivy setup a sense of scale on what is quite a reclusive tale. At times, its forcible sexual relations are a little uncomfortable and the stalker, rapey moments are provokingly questionable.
It's more grounded and sophisticated than Milan Todorovic's horror Killer Mermaids. Siren has a fairly paint by numbers outcome but it's beautifully shot and framed, benefitting from a somewhat novel premise as men go crazy over the potent smells. There's a melodic violin and piano driven score which gives it a mysterious lazy Sunday feel.
Overall, don't expect an action horror thriller. Peyronel successful commits to screen a twisted romantic character study in the guise of a deadly modern fairy tale. Recommended for adult fairytale fans.
Not be be confused with cleavage packed Siren (2011). Jesse Peyronel's 2013 Siren is a lost gem, a finely executed indie film from Osiris Entertainment that has managed to stay hidden away like its security surveyed main character. Directed and written by Peyronel it's a slow burning contemporary dark fairytale with widow-like imagery.
Opening with a voice over that says, "Once upon a time..." a flower and candle filled large house, there's a flashback to a boys encounter with a showered with gifts (well cast) young girl called Leigh. The set up is wonderfully played out by the child actors who set the stage of what's to come. The captivating Ali Larter-like Vinessa Shaw (of the Hills Have Eyes rehash) holds attention throughout, her blood is being bottled due to its attractive pheromone powers. She is cursed, everyone can't help but fall in love with her and their life is subsequently turned upside down. However, charming Robert Kazinsky (of Pacific Rim fame) is immune to her allure having lost his sense of smell. With a dodgy perfume company over arching the proceedings it gives this Posion Ivy setup a sense of scale on what is quite a reclusive tale. At times, its forcible sexual relations are a little uncomfortable and the stalker, rapey moments are provokingly questionable.
It's more grounded and sophisticated than Milan Todorovic's horror Killer Mermaids. Siren has a fairly paint by numbers outcome but it's beautifully shot and framed, benefitting from a somewhat novel premise as men go crazy over the potent smells. There's a melodic violin and piano driven score which gives it a mysterious lazy Sunday feel.
Overall, don't expect an action horror thriller. Peyronel successful commits to screen a twisted romantic character study in the guise of a deadly modern fairy tale. Recommended for adult fairytale fans.
Sexy, mysterious and a top watch
omendata2 January 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Was not sure if this would be my bag but it sure surprised me.
Smooth acting from both the leads with a demure yet smouldering performance from one of the sexiest women I have seen on the silver screen in a long time; almost worth watching just for her superlative performance as she fitted the role like a glove, i do not think they could have found a better fit for the role.
The male character, whilst not the ideal choice for the role performed well, good story although it could have been fleshed out a lot more with better supporting cast and the ending seemed a tad over too quickly after the excellent slow build-up.
Not sure why other reviewers are asking questions about who the person hiding outside at the end was, its as if viewers need everything explained these days - She the Siren was the woman hiding whilst the murdered woman was taken out as a doppelganger for the Siren - quite simple but to deduct stars just because you are not intelligent enough to understand the movie is a bit harsh. The flowers and all the other clues were easily explained if you paid attention to the movie - To disguise and confuse her scent / pheromone release.
Good film, well acted with a total sizzling performance from Vinessa Shaw; shame she never really made more movies as she beats most actresses these days into a cocked hat and with personality and beauty to admire for any man it is definitely a watch again movie for me so gets a good 7/10 stars!
Smooth acting from both the leads with a demure yet smouldering performance from one of the sexiest women I have seen on the silver screen in a long time; almost worth watching just for her superlative performance as she fitted the role like a glove, i do not think they could have found a better fit for the role.
The male character, whilst not the ideal choice for the role performed well, good story although it could have been fleshed out a lot more with better supporting cast and the ending seemed a tad over too quickly after the excellent slow build-up.
Not sure why other reviewers are asking questions about who the person hiding outside at the end was, its as if viewers need everything explained these days - She the Siren was the woman hiding whilst the murdered woman was taken out as a doppelganger for the Siren - quite simple but to deduct stars just because you are not intelligent enough to understand the movie is a bit harsh. The flowers and all the other clues were easily explained if you paid attention to the movie - To disguise and confuse her scent / pheromone release.
Good film, well acted with a total sizzling performance from Vinessa Shaw; shame she never really made more movies as she beats most actresses these days into a cocked hat and with personality and beauty to admire for any man it is definitely a watch again movie for me so gets a good 7/10 stars!
Think about it
Jackbv12311 January 2024
This movie is about what you would expect from the synopsis. We learn a little at a time what Leigh's life is like and especially her very sad backstory. Even so, the movie tries to keep from getting totally hopeless. So if you start to think about the repercussions of what it could be, it could become quite depressing. Somehow Leigh manages an outlook at least a little above depressing.
It soon becomes clear that there are people who know about Leigh and her potential. Perfume? Yeah sure. The people who know want more than that and it is all about power and money.
The relationship between Guy and Leigh could almost be a romance. The actors sell it, especially Vinessa Shaw. Is it irony that the woman who appears to men as their fantasy girl starts to think about this stranger, Guy, as the fulfillment of the fantasies that she has undoubtedly nurtured and at the same time denied over all her years in this solitary hell?
Yes I think the movie does a decent job bringing these emotions out in me, the viewer.
I doubt that the "twist" surprises many people, but there is another twist that is fairly clever after that.
It soon becomes clear that there are people who know about Leigh and her potential. Perfume? Yeah sure. The people who know want more than that and it is all about power and money.
The relationship between Guy and Leigh could almost be a romance. The actors sell it, especially Vinessa Shaw. Is it irony that the woman who appears to men as their fantasy girl starts to think about this stranger, Guy, as the fulfillment of the fantasies that she has undoubtedly nurtured and at the same time denied over all her years in this solitary hell?
Yes I think the movie does a decent job bringing these emotions out in me, the viewer.
I doubt that the "twist" surprises many people, but there is another twist that is fairly clever after that.
It does not stink....
jonasatmosfera23 December 2020
It could be better, but it also could be a lot worse.
Interesting story and concept, sort of scifish..
"Siren" moves at it own pace, which is good. There are no meaningless action scenes, no preaching, and one cares ( a little) about the main characters. There is even some chemistry between them.
There are some loose ends in it and the ending is not that well explained.
But despite its flaws "Siren" is worth a watch,
Very enjoyable
ropelawshiel6 May 2021
I wanted to like it
rubenoftheorchard29 June 2022
I wanted to like it. I read the reviews and seems good. Good premise.
I could only make 30 mins in before I couldn't make it anymore.
Just so slow and things that don't make sense.
She gives a guy raw meet to test his sense of smell and the guy starts to eat it.
So many things.
I could only make 30 mins in before I couldn't make it anymore.
Just so slow and things that don't make sense.
She gives a guy raw meet to test his sense of smell and the guy starts to eat it.
So many things.
Not too bad
tommaguzzi6 October 2021
Siren - means run
reviews19583 December 2016
Warning: Spoilers
Run. Away from this movie. Geesh, I don't know where to start: bad acting, bad script, bad everything.
Leigh exudes her essence during her time of the month. Men see her as the woman of their dreams and become obsessed with her. Women are threatened by her. Both sexes become violent when exposed to her essence. I know...roll your eyes on that alone.
The other reviewers must allow a lot in terms of what a good movie portrays..that or I didn't watch the same movie they did.
This is not a thriller. This is not a fairy tale for adults. Not even close. It is a scattered mess with robot speaking actors. It seemed liked they had their scripts close by and could only remember one or two lines at a time before having to reference the script for their next few lines.
What man in his right mind would let a woman he has just met lock him up in a guest house? What woman would be attracted to a man who hasn't washed himself or his clothes for weeks at a time?
What's with all the flowers in her house? Never explained. What happened to her parents? Never explained. Who was the woman in the body bag? Never explained. Who was sitting outside the door in the funky cape when the bad guys carried the woman's body out? Never explained. There is just too many rattled pieces shaken around in this movie to make any (es)sense.
This movie wasn't as good as a Lifetime sappy chick flick. Don't say you weren't warned!
Leigh exudes her essence during her time of the month. Men see her as the woman of their dreams and become obsessed with her. Women are threatened by her. Both sexes become violent when exposed to her essence. I know...roll your eyes on that alone.
The other reviewers must allow a lot in terms of what a good movie portrays..that or I didn't watch the same movie they did.
This is not a thriller. This is not a fairy tale for adults. Not even close. It is a scattered mess with robot speaking actors. It seemed liked they had their scripts close by and could only remember one or two lines at a time before having to reference the script for their next few lines.
What man in his right mind would let a woman he has just met lock him up in a guest house? What woman would be attracted to a man who hasn't washed himself or his clothes for weeks at a time?
What's with all the flowers in her house? Never explained. What happened to her parents? Never explained. Who was the woman in the body bag? Never explained. Who was sitting outside the door in the funky cape when the bad guys carried the woman's body out? Never explained. There is just too many rattled pieces shaken around in this movie to make any (es)sense.
This movie wasn't as good as a Lifetime sappy chick flick. Don't say you weren't warned!
Well worth the watch
redproton8822 January 2017
Siren is a film with an unusual surrealistic premise. If you like slow paced but intriguing ideas I would highly recommend this film. The story centers around Leigh who lives behind locked gates and surrounded by security cameras in a little cottage. The mystery behind her isolation is interestingly revealed. I think this is movie highly underrated and I would ignore any low ratings and give it a try. I don't write a lot of reviews, but I felt this movie truly deserves some attention and I hope to encourage people to check it out.
Pardon the aside, but one 2 star reviewer complained that 4 key points were not explained. Clearly that viewer wasn't paying any attention to the film because all the answers were right there if you were actually paying attention.
Bottom line if you like unusual and artistic films, give it a watch.
Pardon the aside, but one 2 star reviewer complained that 4 key points were not explained. Clearly that viewer wasn't paying any attention to the film because all the answers were right there if you were actually paying attention.
Bottom line if you like unusual and artistic films, give it a watch.
Definite kudos for originality of concept, and well acted.
charles00013 December 2018
Not even sure how to categorize this, but it was well worth the time spent watching.
Interestingly unique story. The only film comparison that even remotely comes to mind is "Perfume", although the settings and circumstances are completely different, except for the singular thread of similarity being the consistent theme of pheromones and their potential powers (and consequences) thereof.
In an odd sort of way, Leigh (Vinessa Shaw) would have been the theoretical ultimate object of desire in Perfume, in that here
character here is that of a woman who is apparently afflicted the phenomena of extreme and overpowering pheromones, to the extent that she literally sells her "essence" to a corporate perfume lab to make her living.
In this story, however, Leigh's special uniqueness has led her to a life of complete self imposed isolation, with the perpetual consequence that any ordinary man who encounters her is immediately overtaken with an involuntary and irreversible, chemically induced obsession.
That is, until she encounters the presence of Guy (Robert Kazinsky), who is apparently immune because of his lack of sense of smell . . . but that's just the beginning.
No spoilers here, so not going any further with this explanation, except to say that there is much more to this story as it unfolds.
Very interesting character study, wrapped around a compellingly unique combination of sci-fi, psych thriller (for lack of a better description) and fantasy, sort of. Ultimately it's an expose' of the fragility of the human condition, under unique circumstances, and the consequences thereof.
The ending was a bit of a stretch, but still, definite kudos for originality of concept, and well acted.
A solid eight stars for a well crafted and conceptually unique production.
Interestingly unique story. The only film comparison that even remotely comes to mind is "Perfume", although the settings and circumstances are completely different, except for the singular thread of similarity being the consistent theme of pheromones and their potential powers (and consequences) thereof.
In an odd sort of way, Leigh (Vinessa Shaw) would have been the theoretical ultimate object of desire in Perfume, in that here
character here is that of a woman who is apparently afflicted the phenomena of extreme and overpowering pheromones, to the extent that she literally sells her "essence" to a corporate perfume lab to make her living.
In this story, however, Leigh's special uniqueness has led her to a life of complete self imposed isolation, with the perpetual consequence that any ordinary man who encounters her is immediately overtaken with an involuntary and irreversible, chemically induced obsession.
That is, until she encounters the presence of Guy (Robert Kazinsky), who is apparently immune because of his lack of sense of smell . . . but that's just the beginning.
No spoilers here, so not going any further with this explanation, except to say that there is much more to this story as it unfolds.
Very interesting character study, wrapped around a compellingly unique combination of sci-fi, psych thriller (for lack of a better description) and fantasy, sort of. Ultimately it's an expose' of the fragility of the human condition, under unique circumstances, and the consequences thereof.
The ending was a bit of a stretch, but still, definite kudos for originality of concept, and well acted.
A solid eight stars for a well crafted and conceptually unique production.
My Review Of 'Siren"
ASouthernHorrorFan12 September 2015
"Siren" tells a very soft, emotional story that explores both the perils and rewards of love, sexual desire, and companionship. The characters have an almost melancholy appearance which contrasts the very dark circumstances of Peyronel's fairy tale. The protagonist has a sad existence, self-exiled from people and the world in order to just live a safe life and fulfilling life. As fulfilling as a creature could live considering that one's very existence creates a desire so strong that it becomes dangerous to be around men, and in women there is a hatred so deep that connection with other females is equally dangerous.
I love the story, the characters are so tragic, like poor little lumps of lost emotions just wondering the world longing for something more. The cast give very haunting and compelling performances of the characters, and really are what pull you into this dark fantasy. "Siren" does have some tense, slightly thrilling moments. For the most part though, this is really just a suspenseful, and dramatic character study. One that is inspired by a mythical being trying to live a very typical life- as typical as a mythical creature's life could be. What makes Peyronel's story so entertaining and compelling is that the story focuses more on a scientific and biological occurrence that gives rise to Leigh's "siren" like qualities as opposed to one of a mythical creature lurking about man's world. Almost as if this scenario could be similar to the one eons ago that gave rise to Siren lore.
Overall "Siren" is a melodrama more than a thriller. It is a very good film that is total modern fantasy. The atmosphere is at times very "Nicholas Sparks", but a bit darker. The cast are great and the settings are beautiful, whimsical slices of creativity and art. The biggest draw for me personally was Leigh's love interest Robert Kazinsky, and the whole science fiction element surrounding the company that Leigh sold her pheromones to. The story does move slow, and there isn't a heavy horror element to the movie so that will be a downer for most horror driven fans. I would say if you occasionally like the modern fantasy/fairy tale themes with a bit of Nicholas Sparks mixed in then "Siren" is a perfect film. I enjoyed it,
I love the story, the characters are so tragic, like poor little lumps of lost emotions just wondering the world longing for something more. The cast give very haunting and compelling performances of the characters, and really are what pull you into this dark fantasy. "Siren" does have some tense, slightly thrilling moments. For the most part though, this is really just a suspenseful, and dramatic character study. One that is inspired by a mythical being trying to live a very typical life- as typical as a mythical creature's life could be. What makes Peyronel's story so entertaining and compelling is that the story focuses more on a scientific and biological occurrence that gives rise to Leigh's "siren" like qualities as opposed to one of a mythical creature lurking about man's world. Almost as if this scenario could be similar to the one eons ago that gave rise to Siren lore.
Overall "Siren" is a melodrama more than a thriller. It is a very good film that is total modern fantasy. The atmosphere is at times very "Nicholas Sparks", but a bit darker. The cast are great and the settings are beautiful, whimsical slices of creativity and art. The biggest draw for me personally was Leigh's love interest Robert Kazinsky, and the whole science fiction element surrounding the company that Leigh sold her pheromones to. The story does move slow, and there isn't a heavy horror element to the movie so that will be a downer for most horror driven fans. I would say if you occasionally like the modern fantasy/fairy tale themes with a bit of Nicholas Sparks mixed in then "Siren" is a perfect film. I enjoyed it,
Unique and Enjoyable
chasethefoxx2 June 2018
I read other reviews saying that things weren't explained.. that is false they obviously weren't paying attention..The movie is a nice unique and refreshing one. I actually enjoyed it And kinda wish there was a sequel.
Surprisingly good
Nikar428 August 2018
Warning: Spoilers
A woman, Leigh, with very appealing pheromones lives an isolated life on the outskirts of a small town, her parents died and she hasnt had much social interactiin since. Although how they died is not explained, it seems irrelevant to the story.
Many of the locals believe her to be a witch given peoples reaction to her scent. The men she has contact with believe they love her and as such she has issues with stalkers and her personal safety. This story concentrates mainly on one stalker but daily flowers and gifts delivered along with men trying to get her attention on the security camera confirm this is an ongoing problem with many men. The scent also impacts women who already tend to be jealous of the attention she receives.
Leigh sells her blood to perfume companies and they have found it helps the perfume increase a person's attractiveness. They have also found the smell can trigger rage and aggression if men smell it on other men. This would make for a powerful weapon.
A handsome stranger with no sense of smell arrives and the story is of how their relatiinship develops in her dangerous world.
I loved that there was a scientific explanation for her witchcraft. Another reviewer mentions lots of loose ends but for me everything wrapped up nicely in the end. I think maybe they've missed a few short but key scenes which explains these clearly. I really enjoyed this film. It's not action packed, nor is it frightening. I found this to be a slow but interesting romantic/ drama with a little mystery. It is a little "made for tv" but ir managed to keep me interested start to finish.
Many of the locals believe her to be a witch given peoples reaction to her scent. The men she has contact with believe they love her and as such she has issues with stalkers and her personal safety. This story concentrates mainly on one stalker but daily flowers and gifts delivered along with men trying to get her attention on the security camera confirm this is an ongoing problem with many men. The scent also impacts women who already tend to be jealous of the attention she receives.
Leigh sells her blood to perfume companies and they have found it helps the perfume increase a person's attractiveness. They have also found the smell can trigger rage and aggression if men smell it on other men. This would make for a powerful weapon.
A handsome stranger with no sense of smell arrives and the story is of how their relatiinship develops in her dangerous world.
I loved that there was a scientific explanation for her witchcraft. Another reviewer mentions lots of loose ends but for me everything wrapped up nicely in the end. I think maybe they've missed a few short but key scenes which explains these clearly. I really enjoyed this film. It's not action packed, nor is it frightening. I found this to be a slow but interesting romantic/ drama with a little mystery. It is a little "made for tv" but ir managed to keep me interested start to finish.
Excellent film with elements of a thriller and science-fiction
brad_laces30 September 2017
As mentioned in other reviews, this film focuses on a woman who has a unique pheromone that causes men to become enraptured with her. It is beautifully and subtly film. The actors come across as authentic people with difficult pasts.
The film requires careful watching in order to understand the complexity of the various plots.
Why the film has an "MA" rating is unclear. Many PG-13 films have more nudity and vulgarity than this one.
The film requires careful watching in order to understand the complexity of the various plots.
Why the film has an "MA" rating is unclear. Many PG-13 films have more nudity and vulgarity than this one.
Wonderful
rosemaryfraser-216851 July 2018
I wasn't expecting much, but this was a really nicely done movie. I have to admit that I like stories that a "out there", but this was a really watchable movie that wasn't full of the super-powers that I normally prefer.
I don't know why I didn't give it a 10/10...but I think I just want to leave room for "the ultimate" movie (if I ever find it).
Well worth the watch. It's better than most movies in general.
Surprised by the lack of reviews
ravenclaw_girlrules14 May 2020
I'd heard this concept before (the idea of an Aphrodite type character shifting to meet everyone's perceptions of beauty) but I didn't know this movie existed until today. It's a bit of a slow burner, but it's never boring. It's a good idea to have her involved with a perfume company. It frustrates me when she puts her cloak on but doesn't put her hood up to shadow her face, though. Overall, an interesting watch.
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