The 3rd Guest

Cabin-in-the-woods troupe with an interracial husband/wife on rough times. They have a hack ghost hunting business and take a lucrative job opportunity or they'll lose their house.

They have a recently deceased daughter and the daughter comes back to haunt them. They think it's the home-owner playing a prank. Slowly the wife dives into the history of the old house, and the cult leader / magician Karlov. The husband cracks and is possessed by this magician, turning on his wife.

It's a formula that worked well for Harrison Ford and Michelle Pfeiffer in 'What Lies Beneath', but with a non-existent budget and fresh actors, the slow methodical pace is hindered by obvious production issues.

The strength is in the setting, which is utilized extremely well for the budget limitations. The music is also orchestrated well.

Yeah... it's got it all alright.... it's got mixed relations. It's got alphabet flags. It's got "hillbilly" backwoods. It's got racial accusations. The only thing it DOESN'T have is a plot. Or quality acting. Or a script. Or entertainment... But it's got all the boxes covered.

The acting in this, if you want to call it that, was abysmal, over the top and amateurish. The audio was all over the place - overly high in some places while way to much bass in others, completely obscuring most of the dialog. But, that may have been a blessing, though, because what dialog was understandable was ridiculous. Nothing in this waste of digital film made any sense at all. And no... the ending does not tie it all together.

If you read the other reviews, you'll see a theme. Most of them give top stars and then proceed to give similar comments that would indicate that the rating should have been a 1 or 2 at the most. The majority of the high scores here are paid.

Please avoid this at all costs. If not... you were warned.

"The 3rd Guest," a cinematic endeavor brought to life by the collaborative talents of writer, director, and editor Sean Patrick Cannon, producer Kristifor Cvijetic, and lead actor Matthew T Clark, stands as a testament to the power of passion and dedication in independent filmmaking. With a modest budget and a team committed to their craft, this film delivers an impressive and engaging experience.

Matthew T Clark's performance is a standout in "The 3rd Guest." Despite the absence of big-name actors, Clark's portrayal of the central character injects the film with a charismatic energy. His nuanced delivery and authentic emotional range elevate the narrative, making it easy for audiences to invest in the unfolding story. Clark's presence is a testament to the potential for talent to shine, irrespective of the Hollywood hierarchy.

Sean Patrick Cannon, wearing multiple hats as the writer, director, and editor, showcases a commendable level of skill in crafting a cohesive and compelling narrative. The film's storyline, though not groundbreaking, is enriched by Cannon's attention to character development and storytelling finesse. The pacing is generally well-executed, with scenes flowing seamlessly, though occasional awkward moments may be attributed to the constraints of a limited budget.

The collaborative effort of the production team, spearheaded by producer Kristifor Cvijetic, is evident in the film's overall aesthetic. While constrained by financial limitations, the team maximizes the available resources to create a visually engaging experience. The use of practical effects and inventive set design, albeit simple, adds a charming authenticity to the film, emphasizing the dedication of the crew to their vision.

One of the film's strengths lies in its musical score, a testament to the collaborative nature of the project. The soundtrack, though composed on a tight budget, complements the narrative beautifully, enhancing emotional beats and contributing to the overall atmosphere of the film.

"The 3rd Guest" is not without its flaws, as is expected with most indie productions. However, the film's achievements far outweigh its limitations. It serves as an inspiring example of what can be accomplished when a talented group of individuals comes together with a shared passion for storytelling.

In conclusion, "The 3rd Guest" is a triumph for independent filmmaking, where the talents of Matthew T Clark, Sean Patrick Cannon, and Kristifor Cvijetic converge to deliver a heartfelt and compelling cinematic experience. Despite its small budget and lack of industry heavyweights, this film succeeds in capturing the essence of collaborative creativity, leaving audiences with a newfound appreciation for the artistry that thrives beyond the glitz of Hollywood.

The script is atrocious - just unbelievably terrible. How on earth did this thing make it to production??? Not a chance this was externally funded. Aspiring scriptwriters the world over should watch this abomination, to give themselves a confidence boost that they will already be much better at scriptwriting than whoever wrote this. And no matter how novice they may currently be on their scriptwriting journey, they can be confident that they too could one day make it to film, no matter how bad they end up, and their scripts will be superior to this atrocity. On the contrary to other reviews, I think every film lover should watch this film, to remind ourselves just how good other films actually are.

In an era where big-budget blockbusters dominate the silver screen, it's refreshing to stumble upon a hidden gem like 'The 3rd Guest'. This indie horror flick proves that great storytelling and genuine talent can shine through even the most modest of budgets.

One of the most remarkable aspects of 'The 3rd Guest' is its production value considering its shoestring budget of under $20,000. Director [Director's Name] and the entire crew have crafted a film that defies expectations, utilizing clever techniques and creative resourcefulness to deliver a genuinely chilling experience. From the atmospheric cinematography to the eerie sound design, every aspect of the film demonstrates a commitment to making the most out of limited resources.

The cast, comprised of relatively unknown actors, delivers surprisingly strong performances that elevate the film beyond its budgetary constraints. Their authenticity and dedication to their roles draw the audience into the story, making the terror feel all the more palpable.

While some may dismiss 'The 3rd Guest' due to its lack of big-name stars or flashy special effects, this film serves as a testament to the power of independent cinema. It reminds us that true talent and creativity can flourish in any setting, regardless of financial backing.

Furthermore, the accessibility of 'The 3rd Guest' on platforms like Freevee should be celebrated. In a world where streaming services are dominated by subscription fees and paywalls, it's refreshing to see a film that prioritizes reaching a wide audience over profit margins. After all, entertainment should be about sharing experiences and sparking conversations, not exclusivity.

In conclusion, 'The 3rd Guest' may not have the glossy sheen of a Hollywood blockbuster, but what it lacks in budget, it more than makes up for in heart and ingenuity. So, the next time you're browsing through your streaming options, don't overlook this little horror gem. Embrace the charm of indie filmmaking and prepare yourself for a spine-tingling journey into the unknown.