Darkness Falls, Fear Rises in Diner Siege

Read Time:3 Minute, 57 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Last Straw
–

Genre: Horror, Thriller
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 23m
Director(s): Alan Scott Neal
Writer(s): Taylor Sardoni
Cast: Jessica Belkin, Jeremy Sisto, Taylor Kowalski, Tara Raani, Joji Otani Hansen, Glen Gould, Levon Panek, Brian D. Wolfe
Where To Watch: in select theaters, digital, and on-demand on September 20, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: LAST STRAW begins its tale under the dim lights of a diner that soon becomes a fortress of fear, encapsulating a blend of heart-pounding horror and psychological intrigue. Director Alan Scott Neal embarks on a narrative that intertwines the personal struggles of Nancy, a waitress portrayed by Jessica Belkin, with a horrifying siege by masked assailants. This film transcends typical horror fare by weaving a deep psychological thread through its plot, presenting a journey into the resilience of the human spirit.

Nancy's portrayal by Belkin is a revelation as she navigates the dual crises of an unexpected pregnancy and the diner's invasion with a raw and gritty realism. The intersection of her private life and external threats amplifies the stakes, painting her as a survivor and a beacon of strength. This movie shines a spotlight on its characters, making their depth the core of the narrative, which is enriched further by Neal's use of a claustrophobic diner setting that serves as both a sanctuary and a trap.

The script, penned by Taylor Sardoni, carefully constructs a film of tension that builds to climactic confrontations, excellently using the diner’s isolating atmosphere to heighten the suspense. The strategic use of shadows and constrained spaces makes the restaurant feel like a living, breathing character that mirrors Nancy's escalating fear and determination. This attention to detail ensures that LAST STRAW is set to hit audiences in the feels. LAST STRAW occasionally treads into familiar territory with flashbacks and the "24 hours earlier" trope, which, while providing context, sometimes diminishes the suspense by preempting the action. Nevertheless, sharp dialogue and compelling characters keep the viewer engaged, rooting for Nancy as she faces her assailants and her fears.

Alan Palomo’s score deserves a special mention. Its haunting melodies weave through the narrative, adding layers of unease and anticipation. The music acts as a background and an active participant in the storytelling, enhancing the film’s eerie atmosphere and masterfully complementing the visual tension.

Neal demonstrates a grasp of the horror genre with LAST STRAW, blending terror with psychological complexity. His directorial choices highlight the immediate dangers and the underlying emotional battles, making this debut a notable entry into the realms of the horror and thriller genres. Despite some pacing issues, especially in the middle act, where the tension could be tightened, Neal's film is a commendable exploration of characters under crisis.

Belkin’s nuanced performance, supported by Sardoni’s layered writing, elevates LAST STRAW beyond the typical horror flick. It challenges the audience to look beyond surface scares to the internal conflicts that drive the film’s narrative. Nancy’s transformation from a distressed waitress to a formidable force to reckon with encapsulates a powerful message of empowerment and personal growth amidst chaos.

LAST STRAW revitalizes the siege horror genre with a fresh perspective that focuses on the psychological battles of its protagonists. It offers an experience that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling, leaving a lasting impression on its audience. This film not only entertains but also invites viewers to reflect on the more profound horrors that confront us all, proving that the most profound fears are those that lurk within.

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[photo courtesy of SHOUT STUDIOS!, BAD GREY, AC3 MEDIA, SCYTHE, BURN LATER PRODUCTIONS]

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