A Wilderness Journey Into Fear

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MOVIE REVIEW
Loop Track
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Genre: Thriller
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 36m
Director(s): Thomas Sainsbury
Writer(s): Thomas Sainsbury
Cast: Thomas Sainsbury, Hayden J. Weal, Tawanda Manyimo, Noa Campbell, Kate Simmonds, Bianca Seinafo, Gaby Solomona
Where To Watch: on Digital Platforms & VOD on December 1, 2023

RAVING REVIEW: In LOOP TRACK, Tom Sainsbury takes us on a suspense-filled journey into New Zealand's majestic Waitākere Ranges. This isn't your average walk in the woods – it's a gripping tale in which we get to join Ian, played by Sainsbury, whose search for tranquility turns into a fight for survival. The film intertwines psychological thriller elements with the adrenaline-pumping suspense of a slasher, making each scene a thrilling escalation in a story as unpredictable as it is engaging. I found the entire experience very genuine; the time taken to build up the world these characters inhibit was well worth the payoff!

Sainsbury, synonymous with comedy, steps into the wilderness and a new genre with LOOP TRACK. Here, Sainsbury portrays a man who embarks on what he expects to be a peaceful hike in New Zealand's mountains, only to find himself in a harrowing battle for survival. This film stands out as a daring blend of psychological thriller and “slasher,” pushing the boundaries of traditional genre definitions.

One of the film's most striking features is its portrayal of the New Zealand landscape. Far from being just a setting, the wilderness becomes an integral part of the story, its dense and mysterious landscape weaving a web of intrigue and suspense around Ian. The haunting soundscape, enriched by the area's traditional music, envelops the audience, drawing them into Ian's increasingly fraught mind.

Sainsbury's dynamic with Hayden J. Weal, who brings to life Nicky, infuses the film with a unique energy. Their on-screen chemistry, first seen in their earlier work DEAD, now takes on a new dimension, blending tension and humor in a narrative that continually keeps the audience on their toes.

LOOP TRACK shines in its ability to juxtapose horror with dark comedy elements. Sainsbury's handling of this delicate balance ensures a climax that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally satisfying. His portrayal of Ian's descent into paranoia strikes a chord, mirroring the universal fight against inner demons. The movie's pacing is impeccable, maintaining a thrilling balance between the suspenseful and the humorous, making it an all-around enthralling cinematic experience. I often feel the triple threat director/writer/actor role costs something in most films; I was proven incorrect here.

At its core, LOOP TRACK delves into themes of isolation and how fear can warp our perception of reality. The film explores these themes through a narrative as compelling as it is relatable, echoing the everyday struggle with personal anxieties. Its seamless blend of suspenseful moments with lighter, more comedic scenes results in a cinematic experience that is both well-rounded and deeply engaging.

LOOP TRACK marks a pivotal point in Sainsbury's career, showcasing his extraordinary range as an actor and a storyteller. This film is not just for horror fans but for anyone who appreciates a narrative that probes the intricacies of human nature. With its unique combination of horror, thriller, dark comedy, solid performances, and a gripping storyline, LOOP TRACK stands tall as a landmark achievement in New Zealand cinema. It offers a fascinating journey into reality and illusion, solidifying its place as a cinematic experience to be noticed.

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[photo courtesy of DARK SKY FILMS]