samandor-15781
This is a great psychological thriller, that proves that with a good story and script, a competent director and actors can produce a great flick on a small budget. This one is all about the story - minimal blood, minimal body count (mainly historical flashbacks to war zones), and no nudity. Very well done, and look forward to future work from this director.Here comes the spoiler alert (watch the flick first):*** *** ***MK Ultra is mentioned once. Unlike most conspiracy nonsense, this was real, and involved the kinds of unethical experimentation touched upon here. We know about it now due to the Freedom of Information Act. It also encompassed such nonsensical experimentation as that semi-fictionalized in "The Men Who Stare At Goats."Remember the films you watched as a youth in PE or health class, about the dangers of drugs, and how LSD might make you think you can fly? One of the few times that actually happened was someone under MK Ultra, dosed on LSD without their knowledge - they didn't think they could fly, they were terrified because of the state they were in, without knowing why, likely expecting that this would be the state they'd be in for the rest of their life.
Paul Maskowitz
I am a sucker when it comes to psychological thrillers. I'm also the world's harshest critic when it comes to stories about characters having mental breakdowns so I went into this expecting to see the typical "insanity" clichés. Fortunately, this had none of them. The best thing to say about this film is it's always a few steps ahead of you. Even when you think you have a handle on what's happening, you don't. It straddled the family drama and psychological thriller genre very well, blending elements of both without letting down in either category. In some ways, the mood and tone resembled The Shining and The Sixth Sense....films rich in atmosphere and dread. This is also the kind of film that bears repeat viewings to see how all the clues layered throughout pay off in the climax.
emigdal-23658
This is a compelling story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I enjoyed all aspects of this film and would highly recommend it. The acting is superb with Judd Hirsch leading a well cast ensemble of actors through an intricate plot. The film is dark and intense without rising to the level of a "horror" movie. The story builds steadily to its climax when all the pieces fit together in a finely crafted manner. I viewed this film twice at the Palm Beach International Film Festival in March 2015 and it was well received by the audience. I hope it goes into wide release so that many movie fans will have an opportunity to experience and appreciate this excellent work.
mwass7
Saw this at a screening series in New Jersey attended by the filmmakers and some cast. I didn't know what this movie was about going in--I often like to go in with no preconceived ideas or expectations--after the lights went on, the audiences went dead quiet--myself included. It was like we needed a few moments to process the last 90 minutes which could best be described as being with a family you were sure glad wasn't yours but finding yourself unable to pull yourself away from the mystery, trying to guess what was going on but always being way behind solving the puzzle. The cinematography was exquisite as were the subtle and nuanced performances of the entire cast. Judd Hirsch shows off chops he hasn't been given the opportunity to display since ORDINARY PEOPLE. I asked the filmmaker if he was going to campaign for Judd during next years Oscar Season to which, much to my surprise, he chuckled and said "I'll just be happy if we come out in 1 or 2 theaters." Really? Not knowing the film business, I was surprised but I guess there's just too much competition and everyone wants A list stars. I told the filmmaker that I hope he goes to many more theaters and his film gets the attention it deserves. This is truly the kind of sleeper indie film that I hope gets discovered and rises to the top. As a stay at home mom, there are few movies I get to see and my time is very valued so I don't say it lightly when I recommend a film. It was worth the babysitter and then some!