Strings Attached: a New Kind of Thriller

Read Time:3 Minute, 41 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Abruptio
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Genre: Animation, Horror
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 34m
Director(s): Evan Marlowe
Writer(s): Evan Marlowe
Cast: James Marsters, Sid Haig, Christopher McDonald, Robert Englund, Rich Fulcher, Patrick Cavanaugh, Jordan Peele, Hana Mae Lee
Where To Watch: US release September 27, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Evan Marlowe introduces a radical twist in horror cinema with ABRUPTIO, where the terrifying realities of puppetry take center stage. This innovative narrative leverages lifelike puppets to explore a sinister plot that captures and distorts the mundane existence of Les Hackel, voiced by James Marsters. As Hackel’s day-to-day life unravels under the influence of a sinister puppet master, the true horror emerges—not from the creepy puppet aesthetics but from a profound loss of personal freedom.

ABRUPTIO unfolds in a world where life’s low points—unemployment and personal battles like alcoholism—set the stage for a much darker narrative. Hackel’s discovery of a bomb implanted in his neck marks the beginning of his unwilling participation in a macabre game orchestrated by shadowy figures. This element cleverly transforms each puppet character into a metaphor for the erosion of free will, with their exaggerated features enhancing the surreal and oppressive atmosphere of the film.

The voices of horror icons such as Robert Englund and the late Sid Haig amplify the film’s chilling effect. Their performances inject a palpable sense of dread into the characters they embody, who are all entangled in a relentless whirlpool of chaos and vulnerability. This casting decision enriches the tale, providing a multi-layered exploration of the dark sides of human psychology.

More than just a spine-chiller, ABRUPTIO delves into the depths of existential terror, questioning the essence of autonomy and control. It forces the audience to confront unsettling truths about how external pressures can manipulate one’s decisions, presenting a grim reflection on the many and self-determination.

Despite a few technical missteps, Marlowe’s directorial vision is evident as he marries dark humor with the harsh realities that his characters face, maintaining high stakes and a palpable tension throughout the film. A particularly touching subplot involves Chelsea, voiced by Hana Mae Lee, whose presence injects a dose of humanity into the bleak narrative, offering a beacon of hope amidst the encroaching darkness.

The climax of ABRUPTIO is both thought-provoking and ambiguous, compelling viewers to ponder over the intricacies of the plot and the complex choices of its characters long after the end credits. Marlowe shuns the easy route of neat conclusions, instead challenging his audience to decipher the broader implications of the tale on their terms.

With its unique take on horror and a deep dive into psychological terror, ABRUPTIO is a standout film that offers much more than mere jump scares. Its inventive use of puppetry sets it apart in the horror genre and serves as a profound commentary on human experience. This film is only suited for some; its unorthodox approach and somber themes might alienate those accustomed to conventional storytelling. Yet, for those drawn to the edges of creativity, ABRUPTIO promises a truly unforgettable journey that challenges the boundaries of traditional filmmaking. In crafting a world where the line between puppet and person blurs into obscurity, Marlowe has taken a bold step forward in the evolution of storytelling.

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[photo courtesy of ANCHOR BAY ENTERTAINMENT]

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