MOVIE REVIEW
The Night Time World
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Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Horror
Year Released: 2025
Runtime: 1h 25m
Director(s): Timothy Paul Taylor, Brandon Lescure, Sean Brien, Adam Michaels, Chaz Dray Schoenbeck, Gene Blalock
Writer(s): Timothy Paul Taylor, Brandon Lescure, Sean Brien, Adam Michaels, Chaz Dray Schoenbeck, Jhan Harp, Rob Stith
Cast: Doug Henderson, Selina Flanscha
Where To Watch: coming to On Demand and Digital on January 28, 2025 from Lionsgate

RAVING REVIEW: Horror anthologies hold a unique appeal, offering audiences a mix of stories tied together by themes that linger in the shadows. THE NIGHT TIME WORLD is a familiar take on this beloved format, combining modern storytelling techniques with nostalgia. With an ambitious vision, the film stands out by leaning into its charm and unsettling atmosphere.

At the center of the narrative lies a night-shift broadcaster whose ordinary routine is disrupted by a call that feels like any other. The voice on the other end, claiming to possess a terrifying secret, sets the stage for a descent into fear and uncertainty. This premise unfolds across four stories, each directed by a different filmmaker. The lineup includes Brandon Lescure, Sean Brien, Adam Michaels, Chaz Dray Schoenbeck, Gene Blalock, and Timothy Paul Taylor, whose varied styles bring unique textures to the film. The collaborative effort extends to the screenplay, written by the directors, with additional contributions from Jhan Harp and Rob Stith.

Doug Henderson and Selina Flanscha's performances provide the grounding to the story of the film’s surreal and supernatural world. Their ability to embody characters grappling with fear and the unknown brings a human element to the otherworldly themes. So, while there’s a lot to like here, a lot also feels familiar here. Oddly enough, the unknown “radio caller” horror anthology is now a genre itself; I’ve personally covered at least three films with this premise now.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is its visual identity. The aesthetic draws heavily from the atmospheric tones of ’80s and ’90s horror while adding a contemporary polish. The balance of retro influences with modern filmmaking helps to make THE NIGHT TIME WORLD appeal to both longtime fans of the genre and newcomers seeking something new.

Anthologies inherently carry the challenge of balancing variety with cohesion, and this film wrestles with that duality. Each segment offers a unique exploration of fear, presenting a range of tones and narrative structures. However, the transitions between stories occasionally feel disjointed, making the overarching connection less seamless. A more robust thematic thread or recurring motif could have smoothed these edges, enhancing the overall impact. However, the ending does make up for it in some ways.

Character development is another area where the film could have pushed further. Anthology storytelling often limits the time available to build depth, and while some characters leave a lasting impression, others feel underexplored. By giving audiences more time to connect with the characters, the filmmakers could have heightened the suspense and deepened the emotional stakes.

Each story in the anthology takes creative risks, exploring different facets of fear and suspense. The filmmakers’ willingness to experiment with style and structure is commendable, even though they don’t land perfectly. Horror has seen a surge of innovation in recent years, with creators pushing boundaries and reimagining traditional tropes. For casual viewers and devoted horror fans alike, THE NIGHT TIME WORLD offers a mix of chilling narratives and visually interesting moments. The stories delve into themes of mortality and transformation, balancing moments of shock with subtler psychological elements.

While it doesn’t entirely resolve the challenges of balancing variety and cohesion, it demonstrates the format’s enduring potential. Anthologies provide a stage for diverse artistic voices, and this film vigorously embraces that opportunity.

Ultimately, THE NIGHT TIME WORLD earns its place in the canon of horror anthologies. Its ambition and creativity sometimes shine, even when the execution isn’t flawless. For those willing to embrace the unexpected, the film delivers a compelling mix of fear, imagination, and nostalgia. Its stories may vary in impact, but they create an experience long after the credits.

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[photo courtesy of LIONSGATE]

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