MOVIE REVIEW
FACES
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Genre: Horror
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 14m
Director(s): Blake Simon
Writer(s): Blake Simon
Cast: Cailyn Rice, Ethan Daniel Corbett, Emily Gateley, Hanna Eisenbath, Natalie De Vincentiis, Olivia Lee
Where To Watch: world premiere at the 2024 Fantasia Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: The true sign of success for a short film is a short that doesn’t feel like it. This film, clocking in at just 14 minutes, feels like an entire feature when looking back at it and thinking about the story. At a seemingly innocent fraternity gathering, Judy’s (Cailyn Rice) night transforms into an uncanny ordeal in FACES. In this film, director Blake Simon masterfully intertwines the perceived innocence of everyday life with supernatural elements. The film stands out for its deep dive into the psyche of its characters, magnified through their encounters with a menacing entity that not only threatens their existence but reflects their identity crises. Simon’s approach elevates horror, melding psychological intrigue with classic motifs to explore the themes of self and fear in compelling new ways.

Simon, a visionary in the short film scene, leverages his knack for creating suspense and dread from the human condition. With FACES, he crafts a narrative that delves into the characters’ deepest fears, anchoring the film’s tension in their existential struggles rather than mere supernatural threats. This approach enriches the genre with a fresh perspective on horror, turning typical scare tactics into a thoughtful examination of identity.

The film’s technical elements—gorgeous visuals, ominous shadows, and an unsettling score—work in concert to enhance the suspense, proving integral to the film's chilling atmosphere. These elements, coupled with Simon's keen directorial eye, ensure that every scene advances the plot and deepens the emotional resonance of the characters’ journeys.

FACES delves deeply into the psychological underpinnings of horror, exploring the terror of the unknown and how it shapes our deepest fears. This film pays homage to horror classics through its stylistic nods and narrative echoes, carving out its unique identity with innovative storytelling. The stunning experience creates an atmosphere where the beautiful interplays with the macabre, enhancing the film's intense emotional impact. The film's intensity is palpable, with suspense that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, turning anticipation into an art form.

Cailyn Rice’s portrayal of Judy is central to the narrative, whose transformation from a vulnerable college student to a determined survivor anchors the film. Her performance, supported by a strong cast, brings a palpable realism to the chilling encounters, making the spectral elements of the story resonate with a stark terror.

FACES also sharply critiques collegiate social dynamics, exposing the often superficial nature of relationships and the lengths people will go to mask their true selves. This social critique is seamlessly integrated into the storyline, providing a broader commentary that extends beyond the immediate horrors of the plot.

Ultimately, FACES is a significant contribution to the horror genre, marked by innovative direction and a narrative that skillfully intertwines frights with deep introspection. The film challenges viewers to confront their fears and identities, offering more than just scares—it invites a profound contemplation of what truly horrifies us. This is a world that I need more of, with more questions than answers by the film's end; I want to dive into this world and learn all there is to know!

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