Heartless is one of those movies that fall squarely into the 'difficult' category – at times difficult to follow, at times difficult to watch, and very difficult to describe in a review of sorts without giving too much away.

Director Philip Ridley's first film since the Passion of Darkly Noon way back in 1995, Heartless is part horror, part drama and part thriller, with a dollop of craziness thrown in for good measure.

An excellent Jim Sturgess takes on the role of Jamie Morgan, born with a heart-shaped birth mark covering the left side of his face.

Shunned by many throughout his life due to this impediment, Morgan is a shy, lonely type who is happiest when at the side of his mother.

Set in the grimy back-streets and unwelcoming tower blocks of East London, a series of murders and attacks form the backdrop to the story.

And when one of those attacks hits a little too close to home for Morgan he is forced to question his sanity as things take on a demonic shape.

What follows is a descent into madness of sorts that involves the supernatural, some gut-churning violence and a moving finale as things come full circle.

I really, really wanted to like this film as I am always eager to give British films that set their pitch 'out there' a chance, and Heartless certainly does that.

In the main I did like it – the acting is excellent, with Sturgess producing a great character that you genuinely care for, with support from a cast stuffed full of top British talent like Timothy Spall, Noel Clarke and Eddie Marsan.

The cinematography is moody and gritty, and the effects work is spot on without treading anyway near the 'jokey' style so often the case in this genre.

But I have to say that the story is pretty confusing, and is likely to annoy as many people as it thrills.

When the film finished, I had to rewind through a few scenes to try and get my head around it, without much success it must be said.

This is probably a movie that is best seen in a group, allowing some discussion and debate after the credits roll.

And it is certainly best seen when you have your wits about you, with plenty of rewards for those who pay close attention.

Faults it may certainly have, but if you like a bit of thought with your horror, or simply want to give something different a try, Heartless gets my recommendation.