MOVIE REVIEW
Nyctophobia
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Genre: Horror
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 17m
Director(s): Kim Noonan
Writer(s): Koji Steven Sakai
Cast: Bianca D'Ambrosio, Chiara D'Ambrosio, BJ Tanner, Dana Powell, Sean O'Bryan, Dean McDermott, Emily James, Takao Sakai
Where To Watch: digital release on April 22, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Kim Noonan’s first foray into directing, NYCTOPHOBIA, shows some growing pains while trying a somewhat fresh take on the horror genre by incorporating traditional chills with contemporary thrills. It turns a typical high school graduation celebration into a fight for survival against spectral foes amidst a mysterious blackout. The clever use of smartphones as lifelines punctuates our dependency on tech and adds a unique flavor to the terror unfolding on screen.

The film's ambiance, enriched by a haunting score from RZA's Razor Sharp Records, wraps the viewer in a cloak of suspense that thickens with each scene. Noonan’s ability to pay homage to age-old horror elements while using innovative filming techniques breathes life into the found footage style genre, ensuring the terror feels familiar and new simultaneously.

The casting of NYCTOPHOBIA contributes to its indie and amateur feel, utilizing a group of lesser-known actors who bring a raw, unpolished energy that fits the film's experimental vibe. The performances by the twins Bianca and Chiara stand out and provide a fresh perspective, often delivering lines with authenticity. While adding a layer of genuine unpredictability, this choice reflects the intent to create a relatable, youthful horror scenario that diverges from the polished sheen of mainstream cinema.

NYCTOPHOBIA delves into the psyche of its protagonists—Rose (Bianca D'Ambrosio), Azalea (Chiara D'Ambrosio), and BJ Tanner as Brooks—illustrating a battle against their inner demons and outermost fears. The narrative weaves through the escalating dangers around them and desperate survival strategies, supported by performances from the supporting cast, including Dana Powell, Sean O’Bryan, and Dean McDermott, who enrich the film's ominous narrative.

While NYCTOPHOBIA’s integration of cell phones into its storyline highlights our era’s technological ties, this theme sometimes falters in maintaining the suspense that horror enthusiasts crave. Unfortunately, the acting in the film is all over the place, from some moments that feel genuinely genre-worthy to others that feel forced and awkward.

NYCTOPHOBIA mirrors the fears in the human psyche, aiming to redefine how horror films can intertwine fear with thought. It sets a stage where survival becomes not just a physical battle but a mental one, making the audience ponder their concerns.

While NYCTOPHOBIA has a few successes, there are notable areas for improvement that could elevate it within the genre. The film's pacing often feels disjointed, with certain scenes dragging on longer than necessary, detracting from building a consistent sense of dread. Additionally, although innovative, the reliance on smartphone technology as a plot device often comes across as overused, potentially alienating viewers who prefer a more traditional horror experience.

Overall, NYCTOPHOBIA is an ambitious project that combines the dread of horror with the introspection of human fears. It might not nail the landing, as its innovative elements sometimes overshadow the raw, unsettling feel that horror purists seek. Nonetheless, it offers a narrative with some suspense and depth, appealing to those who favor a side of contemplation with their scares. The film, ambitious in its scope, stands as a testament to Noonan’s vision, even if it doesn’t fully satisfy the traditional horror palette.

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[photo courtesy of MIRACLE MEDIA]

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