Unseen Forces Haunt Four College Friends in Utah

Read Time:4 Minute, 6 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Delicate Arch
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Genre: Horror
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 25m
Director(s): Matthew Warren
Writer(s): Matthew Warren
Cast: William Leon, Kelley Mack, Kevin Bohleber, Rene Leech, Pat Collins, Katie Self
Where To Watch: premieres at the 2024 Dances with Films

RAVING REVIEW: Stepping into the world of DELICATE ARCH is like entering a new dimension of horror filmmaking. This film’s inventive use of aspect ratios and filters keeps viewers engaged, questioning, and thinking, delivering a unique viewing experience. Its charm is amplified by a humorous narrative and solid performances from its central characters, making it a standout for horror enthusiasts.

The story follows four college friends—Grant (William Leon,) Wilda (Kelley Mack,) Cody (Kevin Bohleber,) and Ferg (Rene Leech)—on a camping trip to Southern Utah, escaping an environmental disaster back home. As their isolation deepens in the desert, they start questioning reality and sense an ominous presence watching them. This eerie setting paves the way for surreal and frightening events that blur the natural and supernatural lines.

Grant, a paranoid and self-absorbed film student, suspects his best friend Cody of having an affair with his ex-girlfriend Wilda. As Grant’s behavior escalates, the group encounters inexplicable phenomena, suggesting manipulation by otherworldly forces—ancient evils, extraterrestrials, or something even more mysterious.

Directed by Matt Warren and backed by executive producer Rodney Ascher, known for his unconventional and thought-provoking projects, DELICATE ARCH premiered at the 2024 Dances With Films festival. Thanks to his reputation in the genre, Ascher's involvement has heightened anticipation.

A significant highlight of the film is its use of multiple formats and aspect ratios. The primary layer, "Alpha Reality," is shot in a 2.34:1 aspect ratio using the Sony FX9 camera and vintage Leica lenses, creating an authentic desert horror vibe. The secondary layer, "Beta Reality," uses a vintage VHS aesthetic, shot in the Academy Ratio with a DVX100A mini-DV cam, reminiscent of 1990s TV news footage. The final layer, "Zeta Reality," employs modern smartphone footage with a vertical 9:16 frame and AR filters for a psychedelic effect. This multi-layered approach enriches the visual experience and adds narrative depth. However, it can sometimes become distracting, especially in the smartphone format.

Beyond its visual innovation, DELICATE ARCH challenges viewers' perceptions of reality. The film delves into themes of escapism, fractured relationships, and the influence of unseen forces. As the characters’ grip on reality weakens, they unwittingly summon a variety of fantastical threats, including zombies, aliens, and devil worshippers, turning the Utah desert into a surreal and dangerous landscape.

The characters are well-developed and contribute to the film's impact. Grant’s paranoid, forward-thinking nature contrasts sharply with Cody’s rugged, wannabe alpha male demeanor. Wilda’s “messy-cute” appearance and fascination with influencer culture add another layer of complexity, while Ferg’s nonbinary identity and interest in ritual magic introduce elements of mysticism and philosophy.

Warren, the film’s director, aims to create an entertaining and intellectually stimulating horror movie. Drawing from autobiographical elements and a wide range of influences, including Philip K. Dick and augmented reality, Warren crafts a narrative that is textured and multifaceted. The goal is to produce a film that satisfies horror fans and resonates with a broader audience, pushing the boundaries of what horror can achieve.

DELICATE ARCH is poised to be a unique and memorable addition to the horror genre. Its innovative visual formats, compelling narrative, and well-crafted characters ensure it will leave a lasting impression on audiences. Whether you are a cosmic horror experimental cinema fan or enjoy a good scare, DELICATE ARCH is a film you won’t want to miss.

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[photo courtesy of WARREN MEDIA SUPPLY GROUP, GRAY HAT PRODUCTIONS]

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