Breaking Barriers in Independent Film

Read Time:3 Minute, 9 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Killer Vlog
–

Genre: Short, Horror
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 33m
Director(s): Grant Fieldgrove
Writer(s): Grant Fieldgrove
Cast: Emery Valenzuela, Savannah Gregg, Michelle Battan, Riss Halbwachs, Barbie Scarazzo Martinez, Mila Ramos
Where To Watch: available now here www.youtube.com

RAVING REVIEW: I stumble upon this type of film about once a year; I watch many films yearly, but only a select few stick with me in a way I can’t quite explain. KILLER VLOG was crafted on a shoestring budget of merely $180, and this film exemplifies the extraordinary results of fusing resourcefulness with creativity. Using an iPhone for filming, not just as a tool but as a statement, redefining the boundaries of visual storytelling. In my opinion, there are two types of independent films; those made with a heart for the love of the production and those made just to make them and move on to the next project. If you can’t tell, this is one of those productions with heart.

Emery Valenzuela, appearing in her first-ever acting role, shines. Her portrayal is drenched in authenticity, breathing life into her character with a natural ease that pulls you into the film. You lose the feeling of this being a movie, and it begins to feel like the social media “documentary” it’s meant to feel like. There is no question that this is an indie feature, but that only helps to add to the feeling of the narrative. This feels like the “vlog” of a real person, not a character.

KILLER VLOG grips its audience with an intelligent and suspense-packed narrative. With such a short runtime, it’s incredible how much story could be conveyed. It locks the viewer in with the tale of a teenager’s eerie experiences, carefully mixing a narrative that combines the vlogging world with an unexpected twist. The originality in the film kept me entertained from start to finish. I didn’t know what to expect, which improved my experience. The best comparison I could think of was a modern-day homage to THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT, although it’s entirely different at the same time.

In an environment where sequels and remakes typically dominate, KILLER VLOG is a beacon of originality. Its unique plot and execution are a potent reminder that cinema still has unexplored territories and untold stories waiting to be discovered. I would love to see this story expanded on as long as Valenzuela is brought back to the role.

Creating the film as a passion project and taking almost a decade of director Grant Fieldgrove’s life says so much about why the film was so enjoyable. This was clear in every aspect of the film, from the lighting, editing, sound, cinematography, directing, acting, etc. While you know this is an indie film with a limited budget, I’ve seen films with a substantially larger budget that felt like there was no professionalism in them.

In essence, KILLER VLOG is a daring proclamation of the vast possibilities in independent filmmaking. It challenges audiences to reevaluate what constitutes a compelling and memorable film. Valenzuela’s debut is noteworthy, hopefully signaling a bright future in her cinematic journey. KILLER VLOG is an exemplary model of what can be accomplished with creativity, innovation, and a bold venture into new creative territories. Don’t forget to check it out at www.youtube.com. It’s only 33 minutes, and I promise you’ll have fun.

For more reviews, please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestmr.

Follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Find my social media accounts on most platforms simply by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of WATCH THE SKY PRODUCTIONS]