Delving Into the Shadows of Hollywood

Read Time:4 Minute, 13 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Faceless After Dark
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Genre: Thriller
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 23m
Director(s): Raymond Wood
Writer(s): Jenna Kanell, Todd Jacobs
Cast: Jenna Kanell, Danny Kang, Danielle Lyn, Jason MacDonald, Catherine Corcoran, Max Calder, Michael Aaron Milligan, Kathrine Barnes, Alexis Louder, Israel Vaughan, Erin Day, Jason-Jamal Ligon, Jeff Sprauve, Vance Kanell
Where To Watch: in select theatres and VOD/Digital May 17, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: When I think of most modern indie horror films, the first thing that comes to my mind are cheap masks and poor CGI. I always say, “You don’t have to see the scary for something to be genuinely terrifying.” Diving into the shadowy depths of FACELESS AFTER DARK reveals more than just the typical chills and thrills—a gripping narrative spins the horror genre on its head. Directed by Raymond Wood and led by a powerhouse performance from Jenna Kanell, this film explores celebrity life's horrors and real nightmares. More than that, it focuses on how far a person can be pushed until they reach their limits.

From the first frame, Kanell captivates as Bowie Davidson entangled in a web of strobe lights that cast an eerie glow on her blood-splattered visage. Her piercing gaze holds more than just fear—it challenges the audience, setting the stage for a film that isn't afraid to delve into the sinister machinations of the entertainment industry. It is both an homage and a meta-conversation of the sector it's part of.

The story shifts into high gear when Bowie, haunted by her past, encounters a literal embodiment of her on-screen demon—a stalker that takes too much inspiration from one of her past films. This confrontation isn't just a scare tactic; it's a cathartic battle for Bowie to reclaim her narrative on and off-screen. Kanell's portrayal is nothing short of electric, embodying the terror and anguish of a woman forced to face her demons.

The plot thickens as FACELESS AFTER DARK wades through the murky waters of obsessive fan culture. The unsettling yet truthful depictions of fan interactions at conventions, where Bowie is shown off as a piece of meat, a real-life prop, if you will, add a layer of critical commentary on the commodification of film stars. This film doesn't just scare; it illuminates the often toxic relationship between celebrities and their admirers.

Moreover, the movie tackles the ingrained gender dynamics within Hollywood, charting Bowie’s transformation from a victim to a victor. This metamorphosis is brilliantly captured through the film’s minimalist yet striking visual style. The strategic use of lighting and color intensifies the emotional gravity of the narrative, enhancing the dramatic arc of Bowie's empowerment.

FACELESS AFTER DARK is a testament to the genre's potential for innovation and commentary. It challenges viewers to rethink conventions and the real-life implications of the stories we often relish from a safe distance. This film isn’t just about the scares—it’s about the survival and resurgence of a character who redefines what it means to be a heroine in a horror flick.

The experience stands apart from its peers by fusing classic horror elements with insightful critiques. It’s a narrative about overcoming fear and criticizing the industry’s darker aspects. FACELESS AFTER DARK captivates not just as a horror movie but as a profound question on resilience and transformation.

Thanks to its layered narrative, visually striking scenes, and compelling performance by Kanell, FACELESS AFTER DARK will resonate with the horror audience. It transcends typical genre boundaries, offering a unique and reflective exploration of the forces that sculpt both the characters on the screen and the actors who bring them to life. This film is a deep dive into the heart of darkness that challenges, entertains, and ultimately enlightens.

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[photo courtesy of DARK SKY FILMS, MPI MEDIA GROUP]

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