Sinister Shadows in Small Towns

Read Time:3 Minute, 51 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Intensely Independent: The Micro-Budget Films Of Blake Eckard
Bubba Moon Face –
Coyotes Kill for Fun –

Genre: Drama, Crime, Thriller, Horror, Mystery
Year Released: 2011 / 2017, 2024 Synapse Films Double Feature
Runtime: 1h 25m / 1h 13m
Director(s): Blake Eckard
Writer(s): Blake Eckard
Cast: Tyler Messner, Joe Hammerstone, Roxanne Rogers, Arianne Martin, Blanche Eckard
Where To Watch: available September 10, 2024; pre-order your copy here www.synapsefilms.com, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: In indie cinema, Blake Eckard crafts a unique niche with a narrative duo that transcends typical storytelling boundaries with his films BUBBA MOON FACE and COYOTES KILL FOR FUN. These films offer an unflinching look into the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of the fringes of the unexpected. Eckard’s work here is a testament to the unique possibilities that emerge when creative vision meets micro-budget constraints.

BUBBA MOON FACE brings to life the tale of Horton, portrayed with raw intensity by Tyler Messner. Horton's journey back to his Missouri homeland for his mother's funeral catapults him into the center of family turmoil. The stark and desolate landscapes of Northwest Missouri envelop the narrative, acting almost as a silent character that reflects the internal chaos of the protagonists.

The character of Gus (Joe Hanrahan,) entangled in substance abuse and messy relationships, casts a long shadow over Horton’s strained interactions, particularly when the sudden arrival of Sabetha (Sylvia Geiger) and her infant heightens the stakes. The unrefined yet strikingly authentic film's dialogue effectively pulls the audience deeper into the unsettling environment crafted by Eckard.

Switching gears to COYOTES KILL FOR FUN, the narrative shifts to a small community dangling on the brink of anarchy. This film stitches together a tale of horror, thriller, and crime drama, centering on Bev (Arianne Martin,) a mother caught in a web of abuse. The arrival of an evil stranger and some unexpected interactions with the “backwoods” babysitter, Sue Anne (Roxanne Rogers,) drive the story toward a violent climax that threatens to tear the community apart.

The filming process across diverse American landscapes enriches the depth of both films, making each set a crucial piece of the storytelling puzzle. The technical limitations of a low-budget production, especially in terms of sound and lighting, inadvertently heighten the raw, unpolished aesthetic that becomes a hallmark of the film’s atmosphere. Sue Anne, portrayed with an eerie detachment, emerges as a central figure, her mysterious past and cryptic actions weaving a sense of dread throughout the film.

Eckard’s directorial style is evident as he navigates through complex character arcs and challenging narratives, compelling the audience to engage with the film’s themes. His ability to evoke intense emotions and provoke thought underscores his significant influence in the indie film sector, challenging traditional filmmaking norms and offering a fresh lens on narrative cinema.

This double feature highlights Eckard’s approach to filmmaking and showcases how limitations can be transformed into strengths. It invites viewers to deeply explore the human condition, portrayed through the lens of those living on society’s edges. This is indie filmmaking at its most profound, where the essence of storytelling is distilled into its most potent form, offering a viewing experience as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally gripping.

Bonus Materials:
Audio commentary on BUBBA MOON FACE
JOST ON ECKARD – Video interview with indie film legend Jon Jost
Liner notes booklet

Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.

You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. My social media accounts can also be found on most platforms by searching Overly Honest Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of SYNAPSE FILMS, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive free items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl, Books, etc. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices, regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.

Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.