The Changeover

"One of the reasons Kiwi author Margaret Mahy’s works are so beloved is the believable characters she establishes, with young adults in particular convincingly brought to life on the page. Mahy’s fully formed protagonists frequently grapple with the increased responsibilities of adulthood, and that’s true of this big screen adaptation of her 1984 novel — not that supernatural evil is something teens generally have to deal with."

"A worthy addition to the cinematic YA genre which can proudly boast a local edge."

"While the story eventually drifts into a predictable cross of A Nightmare on Elm Street meets Twilight by way of Labyrinth, there's enough of Mahy's knotty themes and ideas, solid, lovingly-crafted film-making and compelling performances..."

"Deeply immersive and affecting, and no question we are witnessing the birth of a real star in young newcomer Erana James."

"James is a revelation as Laura, and Timothy Spall, one of the greatest character actors now working, gives her a perfect foil..."