Congratulations
to Max Landis for writing one of the most original sci-fi screenplays in
recent years with Chronicle!! It was fresh in story, production
design, and most importantly cinematography. Since the story is shot
like a home movie rather than a typical fashion it could have ended
up really choppy like The Blair Witch Project (which I couldn't
stomach). However, I was pleasantly surprised that it was rough, as it
was supposed to be, it didn't feel unsteady. The fact that they left
the camera relatively stationary at times when there was action kept
it from that fate.
The
film felt subtle to me. With most plots that contain supernatural
events the effects are the driving force. This movie felt like the
diary of a nerdy, shy, abused teenage boy on film and he happened to
get super powers. With said powers he discovers strength but his
anger at his treatment by the world, combined with a lack of morals, results in the perfect villain.
As
a side note... a word of caution if you are someone whose heart has
been broken by someone named Andrew; This film may not be your cup of
tea. By the end, that monicker is yelled out so many times
it is distracting. I personally flinch every time I hear that
particular name so the final half hour was a jumpy one.
Bottom
Line: Brilliantly written, cast, shot and edited this is a great
movie for any sci-fi lover looking for a fresh take at the genre.
Seamless, subtle effects coupled with a character driven plot line
equal one hell of a film. Also, the fact that it is supposed to be in
Seattle will make anyone in my current neck of the woods smile. Thank
you Laura for the recommendation.
I
paired it with: Miller Light and Sausage Pizza. Happy Fourth of
July!!!!
