From Tranquility to Chaos: a Couple’s Journey

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MOVIE REVIEW
Glue Trap
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Genre: Horror, Comedy
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 29m
Director(s): Justin Geldzahler
Writer(s): Justin Geldzahler
Cast: Brittany Bradford, Isaac W. Jay, Gloria Bangiola, Alex Warheit, Caroline Hertz, Kasey Marr
Where To Watch: showing June 29, 2023, at Dances with Film; tickets available here www.danceswithfilms.com and learn more about the film here www.instagram.com

RAVING REVIEW: GLUE TRAP, a mischievous medley of humor and horror, unfurls the engaging tale of KJ and Dan, portrayed wonderfully by Brittany Bradford and Isaac Jay, respectively. This duo, harmonious on the surface, is met with a whirlpool of relationship hurdles; their tale takes them to a secluded cabin where their story unfolds and where they hope to confront and smooth out their differences.

GLUE TRAP draws its ambiance from a potpourri of subtle terror and tension, with its suspense-imbued aura that tips its hat to films such as Jordan Peele’s GET OUT, as well as a pinch of MIDSOMMAR, the film’s narrative tightrope-walks between chills and tension so well, crafting a cocktail of emotions that will leave the audience unsure of what’s coming next, with a garnish of comedy thrown in for good measure.

Initially, our protagonists, KJ and Dan, enjoy an ideal retreat into tranquility. They find mutual comfort in each other’s company as serene nature quietly envelopes their disagreements over trivialities with the stunning backdrop of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. However, the surprise entry of Gloria Bangiola’s character, Eliza, triggers a domino effect, upsetting their tranquility and turning their sanctuary into a stage for unexpected drama.

Eliza’s unexpected appearance heightens the anxiety simmering between KJ and Dan. With the relationship threads stretched thin under the weight of Eliza’s interference, the couple’s apprehensions over their tenuous bond escalate, spiraling their situation into chaotic disarray.

Emerging from Justin Geldzahler’s creative imagination, GLUE TRAP crafts a slow-burn adventure through a tangled maze of mystery, suspense, and heart-wrenching emotions. The film’s climate undergoes a steady evolution, climaxing into a gripping finale that will leave the audience stunned.

The compelling performances carry the film forward, with Bradford’s portrayal of escalating animosity stealing the spotlight. The narrative shines as the plot approaches its peak, thanks to her stellar performance. The soundtrack, when used, is phenomenal; being an indie production, I’m sure there were limitations as to what could fit into the budget, but I loved the use of classic songs to work within the confines of the story. Bangiola delivers the most annoyingly perfect performance I could have hoped for, and I mean that in the best way possible, thus making the twist in the film even more powerful.

Justin Geldzahler, a fresh face on the director’s chair hailing from Virginia, attributes the film’s result to the collective endeavor of his cast and crew. He celebrates the transformation of his passion project into a fully realized cinema experience thanks to his team’s dedication and hard work.

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[photo courtesy of STICKY SITUATION, LLC.]