MOVIE REVIEW
Listen Carefully
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Genre: Horror
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 22m
Director(s): Ryan Barton-Grimley
Writer(s): Ryan Barton-Grimley
Cast: Ryan Barton-Grimley, Ari Schneider, Simone Barton-Grimley, David Rickabaugh, Patrick Pankhurst, Richard Gayler
Where To Watch: debuts worldwide on Digital VOD on December 16, 2024, including Apple TV, Tubi, and Prime Video

RAVING REVIEW: In the tense and thrilling world of LISTEN CAREFULLY, audiences are drawn into a captivating narrative that blends the ordinary with the uncanny. As assistant bank manager Andy McNeary’s life unravels with the mysterious disappearance of his daughter Abby, director and star Ryan Barton-Grimley guides us through a psychological maze with skill and poise. This film is not just a horror movie; it's an introspective look at the fears that haunt every parent, delivered with an intensity that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Barton-Grimley, donning both the director's chair and the lead role, delivers a nuanced performance that portrays a range of emotions, from deep despair to terror. His portrayal of Andy effectively captures the psychological complexity of a man thrust into every parent's worst nightmare. This subtlety in performance enhances the film's stress level, allowing for a more profound connection with the audience and fostering a genuine concern for Andy’s fate.

The dream sequences and almost hallucinatory visuals in LISTEN CAREFULLY are innovative and integral to the film’s storytelling. These elements are cleverly employed, enhancing the suspense and deepening the tale being told without overwhelming it. The seamless integration of these visuals into the plot accentuates the surreal quality of Andy's experience, mirroring the disorientation and panic of losing a child in a hauntingly beautiful way.

The film stands out, with certain scenes brilliantly capturing the essence of psychological horror. The cinematography is thoughtful and evocative, amplifying the story's depth. Each frame is crafted to draw viewers deeper into Andy’s deteriorating mind, and the film’s visual coherence maintains a tight grip on the audience's attention.

Supporting performances by Simone Barton-Grimley and Ari Schneider add a vision of drama and intrigue. Both actors deliver strong performances that complement the film's intense atmosphere. Their characters provide crucial narrative pillars that enhance the pacing and mood of the story.

Thematically, LISTEN CAREFULLY explores the innate fears associated with parenthood and the instinctual drive to protect one’s offspring. The film navigates these themes with a careful balance of horror and empathy, crafting a narrative that is both relatable and unsettling. The psychological depth explored here is compelling and resonates with universal truths about human nature and parental bonds.

LISTEN CAREFULLY triumphs in the genre by weaving suspense, emotion, and a touch of the surreal into a tightly-paced cinematic experience. It is a deeply engaging film that offers a fresh take on traditional horror tropes and delivers a terrifying and emotionally resonant story. With its clever direction, strong performances, and thoughtful exploration of fear, LISTEN CAREFULLY is a must-see for anyone who appreciates a horror film that dares to delve into the psychological underpinnings of its characters.

This film reminds us of the power of narrative cinema to explore complex themes within the framework of genre filmmaking. It demonstrates how horror can be entertaining and stimulating, making it a welcome feature that deserves praise.

@listencarefullymovie

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[photo courtesy of HAIDA STREET FILMS, RBG FILMS]

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