MOVIE REVIEW
Through the Door
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Genre: Sci-Fi, Thriller
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 11m
Director(s): Matt Kincses
Writer(s): Matt Kincses
Cast: Lola Claire, Alea O'Shea, Maria Jose Pacreu Rodriguez, Nathan Plumite, Allen Roman, Yasmine Ross, Sam Scherzer, Joon Shin, Steve Thackray, Zahid Valdes
Where To Watch: available now here: www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Indie filmmaking surprises me nearly every week, and this was another prime example! Time travel has always been a fascinating concept, igniting endless possibilities for storytelling and imagination. THROUGH THE DOOR transforms this complex idea into a profoundly human narrative, balancing theoretical intrigue with emotional depth. Directed by Matt Kincses, this film navigates the challenges of its genre, trading grandiose effects for thought-provoking storytelling and nuanced performances. The result is a gripping and original take on the time travel trope that explores the mechanics of bending time and its impact on those who dare to try.

Alea O’Shea plays Zoey, who guides the audience into this mysterious world. Her relatable skepticism about time travel provides a grounded entry point into the story. After being encouraged by her friend Camila (Maria Jose Pacreu Rodriguez) to apply for what appears to be an impossible opportunity, Zoey unexpectedly finds herself approved to access a time travel portal. What begins as a half-hearted gesture quickly escalates into a journey of danger, discovery, and decisions that could reshape lives.

The setting—a sprawling warehouse filled with endless corridors and shadows—is more than a backdrop; it is a character that creates more depth in the film. The maze-like architecture creates a sense of unease, reflecting the uncertainty and tension inherent in the story. As Zoey delves deeper, she encounters others on the same mission: Logan (Nathan Plumite), Jane (Lola Claire), and Carson (Steve Thackray). Each character’s motivation for seeking the portal adds complexity, creating a dynamic interplay of trust, suspicion, and shared urgency.

One of the film's most compelling narrative elements is its approach to time travel theory. THROUGH THE DOOR takes inspiration from existing concepts while carving its own path. Unlike other films that focus heavily on the technical mechanics of time travel, THROUGH THE DOOR uses the idea as a lens to examine personal motivations and emotional stakes. I won’t ruin the mind-bending twist to this all (as others have done; PLEASE stop ruining twists in movie reviews!)

THROUGH THE DOOR's minimalist approach to production sets it apart from other time travel stories. Where big-budget films might rely on elaborate effects to convey the concept, this film strips the genre down to its essentials. This focus on character development and narrative allows the story to shine, proving that great sci-fi doesn’t need spectacle to be effective. Instead, THROUGH THE DOOR offers a meditative exploration of regret, hope, and the lengths people will go to rewrite their personal histories.

While some movies prioritize the technical intricacies of time travel—focusing on paradoxes, loops, or the physics behind the concept—this film leans into its human element. It asks questions about the emotional cost of rewriting the past rather than simply exploring the mechanics.

THROUGH THE DOOR is a testament to what independent filmmaking can achieve when creativity and ambition collide. It reminds us that a strong script, dedicated performances, and an original vision can transcend budgetary limitations. By reimagining time travel as a tool to explore the human experience, the film invites viewers to reflect on their choices, regrets, and the price of second chances.

For sci-fi fans looking for more than just spectacle, this film delivers a rewarding and engaging experience. Its thoughtful yet accessible exploration of time travel theory strikes a balance between speculative intrigue and emotional depth. THROUGH THE DOOR proves that sometimes, the boldest stories come from the smallest productions, leaving a lasting impact that resonates far beyond its runtime.

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[photo courtesy of EAGLE POINT PICTURES]

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