Thrilling Tale of Redemption and Resilience

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MOVIE REVIEW
Insane Like Me?
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Genre: Horror, Mystery, Thriller
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 26m
Director(s): Chip Joslin
Writer(s): Britt Bankhead, Chip Joslin
Cast: Britt Bankhead, Eric Roberts, Grace Patterson, Samantha Reddy, Jack Maxwell, Scarlett McAlister
Where To Watch: debuts on Cable and Digital VOD June 4, 2024 from DeskPop Entertainment

RAVING REVIEW: INSANE LIKE ME strikes a compelling balance between heart-pounding suspense and acute psychological observation. It draws viewers into the stormy life of a war veteran, portrayed by Britt Bankhead, who returns home to face a misjudged legal battle. By doubling as the lead actor and co-writer, Bankhead crafts a narrative rich with tension and emotional complexity. Grace Patterson revives their on-screen chemistry alongside him, further elevating the film’s intense atmosphere.

The film opens with a striking portrait of a soldier transitioning from the front lines to a new kind of battlefield at home, where he faces accusations and wrongful imprisonment for a crime he did not commit—his girlfriend’s mysterious disappearance. This scenario sets the stage for a narrative interlacing courtroom suspense with deep personal drama, reflecting many veterans’ broader struggles.

Bankhead delivers a uniquely powerful performance, seamlessly blending strength and vulnerability. His interactions with Patterson, who plays his former love interest, enrich the storyline, adding intrigue as they navigate their complex past amidst his trials. What stands out is the integration of supernatural elements that mesh with the dramatic narrative, adding a thrilling layer of complexity. Vampires, mental asylums, and more, oh my! Notably, Samantha (Sam) Reddy’s performance as Crystal is exceptional, adding another layer of depth and coherence to the film. Her portrayal of Crystal is both poignant and powerful, serving as the emotional glue that helps to hold the narrative together.

As the film progresses, we follow the protagonist’s painstaking efforts to clear his name, a journey marked by isolation and personal betrayal. Each scene meticulously builds on the last, enhancing the narrative’s depth and keeping the audience on edge. The film captures the nuances of the protagonist’s relationships, particularly with Patterson’s character, amplifying the emotional intensity of their interactions.

Amidst the supernatural chaos and legal complexities, the film subtly incorporates humorous and humanizing moments that provide a breather from its intense narrative. These lighter moments contrast sharply with the film’s overarching tension, adding depth to the viewing experience and reminding us of the absurdity that can exist alongside adversity. To be fair, this feels like the independent movie that it is, but the film is enjoyable and entertaining!

INSANE LIKE ME occasionally struggles with its pacing. Some of the dialogue feels deeper than it should be compared to the rest of the film. Tightening up some of these segments could have streamlined the story and maintained a consistent level of engagement.

The film’s cinematography uses muted tones and stark contrasts to mirror the protagonist’s inner turmoil. The subtle yet powerful score complements the visuals, adding tension and intrigue that pulls the audience deeper into the film’s emotionally charged atmosphere. While some early supernatural twists in the movie feel a little overly theatrical, the visual effects impress, especially some of the more gruesome scenes towards the end.

INSANE LIKE ME is a meticulously crafted thriller that explores the harsh aftermath of war and persistent personal battles. With standout performances from Bankhead and Patterson, the film entertains and challenges viewers. It offers a unique blend of action, legal intrigue, and psychological depth, with just the right balance of the supernatural, making it a notable addition to the genre.

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[photo courtesy of DESKPOP ENTERTAINMENT, BANKHEAD PRODUCTIONS]

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