The Price of Forever

Read Time:3 Minute, 58 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Touched by Eternity
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Genre: Comedy, Horror
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 35m
Director(s): Mārcis Lācis
Writer(s): Mārcis Lācis
Cast: Andris Keišs, Ivars Krasts, Edgars Samītis, Inese Pudža, Armands Bergis, Kaspars Zvīgulis, Artis Drozdovs, Miķelis Kreilis
Language: Latvian with English subtitles
Where To Watch: shown at Fantastic Fest 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Welcome to the quirky and ominous realm of TOUCHED BY ETERNITY, where immortality isn't just a fable but a sinister proposition. Fatso (Andris Keišs,) a solitary figure whose life revolves around cryptocurrency and the pursuit of eternal life, finds his mundane existence upended by two mysterious vampires, Egons (Ivars Krasts) and Carlos (Edgars Samītis.) These charismatic creatures offer him the endless life he's sought after, but their gift comes with a chilling caveat that plunges Fatso into a profound ethical and existential crisis.

Director Mārcis Lācis crafts an intriguing blend of dark humor, philosophical pondering, and horror elements, weaving a narrative that delves into deep questions of existence and morality. TOUCHED BY ETERNITY is a satirical exploration of the human condition, bringing into sharp focus the ever-relevant themes of life, death, and the quest for meaning in an increasingly chaotic world.

At the heart of the film, Fatso, portrayed by Keišs, embodies the everyman with his relatable fears and desires juxtaposed against the otherworldly allure of his new acquaintances. The dynamic between him and the vampire duo injects the tale with a vibrant yet dark energy that captivates the audience, pulling them deeper into this unusual story.

The film's visual style is a significant component of its storytelling, presenting a stark contrast between the bleakness of Fatso's trailer and the lavish, sinister aesthetic of the vampire world. The nocturnal celebrations, illuminated by haunting red hues, elevate the film’s allure and underscore the protagonist's internal struggle as he navigates this new reality.

Despite its compelling thematic and aesthetic elements, TOUCHED BY ETERNITY grapples with pacing challenges. The film's narrative richness sometimes becomes muddled during transitions from energetic, plot-driven scenes to quieter, more reflective moments where Fatso wrestles with the implications of his choices. These shifts, intended to mirror the film's deep themes, occasionally disrupt the flow, leaving some sequences feeling disjointed.

Nevertheless, TOUCHED BY ETERNITY is a poignant examination of what it truly means to live. Fatso’s reluctance to surrender his mortality highlights the existential dread intertwined with the vampires' enticing promise. His interaction with Oskars (Miķelis Kreilis,) the vampire clan's enigmatic young leader, intensifies this conflict, adding a layer of suspense and depth to the unfolding drama.

The film's blend of influences—from the mystical motifs of Latvian folklore to the introspective cinematic style reminiscent of iconic storytellers—enriches its narrative complexity. Keišs' standout performance and compelling portrayals by Krasts and Samītis add a layer of intrigue to the film, enhancing the enigmatic and morally ambiguous world they inhabit.

As TOUCHED BY ETERNITY concludes, it leaves the audience with unresolved questions and a sense of ambiguity that aligns perfectly with exploring profound themes. While certain narrative strands could have been more thoroughly developed, the film engages viewers with its unique fusion of horror, comedy, and existential drama, marking it as a distinctive entry into the vampire genre.

For those willing to dive into its eccentricities, TOUCHED BY ETERNITY presents a novel perspective on vampire lore, merging dark comedy with philosophical debate. It invites viewers to reflect on the costs of immortality and the complexities of finding true fulfillment, making it a thought-provoking experience for a broad audience.

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[photo courtesy of TRICKSTER PICTURES]

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