A Crew’s Bold Quest Beyond

Read Time:3 Minute, 51 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The New Ark
–

Genre: Sci-Fi
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 15m (pilot)
Director(s): F.C. Rabbath
Writer(s): F.C. Rabbath
Cast: Zachary Boltz, Cameron Diskin, Emery Diskin, Valerie Jones Rash, Henry Tisdale, Marina Von Stein, Ashlee Weber
Where To Watch: TBA

RAVING REVIEW: F.C. Rabbath has crafted an intriguing foray into the science fiction genre with THE NEW ARK. The film sets its sights on a retelling of sorts of the biblical story of Noah's Ark against a backdrop of a future on the verge of collapse. It thrusts a group of pioneers into the cosmos, seeking a new sanctuary for humankind amid dwindling resources, highlighting their journey of resilience and survival against the odds.

Rabbath marries a modest budget with solid visual storytelling. From the opening scene, THE NEW ARK sets its crew against expansive horizons, showcasing the director's knack for conjuring vast visual landscapes using practical and computer-generated effects, unique cinematography, and compelling character development. This technical finesse ensures the film captivates without an over-dependence on CGI, maintaining an organic feel. This is an indie production, so there are growing pains, but I’ve seen feature films struggle to create a more believable world!

The core ensemble, featuring Zachary Boltz as Loic, Cameron Diskin as Oah, and Emery Diskin as the “Child,” delivers deeply felt performances that ground the film's ambitious narrative. Their efforts are complemented by Valerie Jones Rash (Val,) Henry Tisdale (Hen,) Marina Von Stein (Mari,) and Ashlee Weber (Naam,) whose contributions enrich the portrayal of intense human interactions under the strain of impending doom.

Rabbath’s use of setting and space plays a pivotal role in amplifying the film’s tension. Each frame is crafted with the desolate vastness of space on your mind. This visual juxtaposition heightens the narrative's stakes and affects the viewer's journey. The effective use of such imagery draws the audience deeper into the characters' plight, making their quest not just a fight for survival but a resonant drama about the human condition.

The script oscillates between action-packed and some deeper segments, provoking thought on our environmental responsibilities and the existential risks of our current trajectory. However, THE NEW ARK does encounter some narrative turbulence, with certain plot twists appearing predictable to the sci-fi fan, occasionally slowing the pacing to a crawl. There are also some struggles with dialogue delivery; sometimes, feeling a bit forced.

Despite these hurdles, the film's character arcs and depth add intrigue and sophistication to Rabbath's series pilot. He is no stranger to genre-bending, as evidenced by his previous works like THE FINAL PACT and THE WAITING, where he skillfully blends horror, comedy, and romance elements into unique cinematic experiences.

In THE NEW ARK, Rabbath expands his reach, offering an intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging project in just 15 minutes. The production design merits high praise for its authentic depiction of a futuristic landscape. The score enhances the narrative, weaving through the scenes and enriching the emotional resonance of the unfolding drama.

THE NEW ARK demonstrates Rabbath's ability to tackle compelling stories within the independent production sector. This science fiction adaptation not only entertains but also challenges its audience to consider the broader implications of our environmental choices and the future of humanity. For those looking for something that combines cerebral engagement with heartfelt storytelling, THE NEW ARK is a rewarding and enlightening journey.

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[photo courtesy of F.C. RABBATH CREATIONS]

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