Fang

Well written script about a subject that, on some levels, something we've all felt, struggled with and have experienced. The mental illness journey that the main character endures is fascinating, eerie and real.

The relationship between the elder parent and him depicts a clash of something he must do out of necessity and love vs wanting the responsibility of it all to end. The mother actor was very good in portraying her own slip with reality.

But when he breaks, he breaks hard into an abyss that he could never escape....though he tried. You have the relationship building, suspense and even a bit of gore.... something for everyone!

If you watch other independent films before you watch this one, you'll understand why I gave it a 7 (granted I wanted to do like a 6.5 so I rounded up).

As someone who has watched a LOT of indie films and gets distracted easily, I can tell you I actually watched this whole film--YAY. Most indie films, especially if they're over 30 minutes long, they don't stand a chance at holding my attention normally.

Now, this film is far from perfect. A lot of things don't make sense and there are a lot of filler walking scenes that were unnecessary (also can we get Billy a better broom for that warehouse??). However, the lead actors as well as the lighting and cinematography of this film really carry it though. The colorization is absolutely gorgeous and the camerawork gives this film a boost beyond independent films. Dylan LaRay and Lynn Lowry absolutely capture your attention when they're in scenes together, and, again, it's better than a lot of independent films that are out there.

Like a combination of Requiem for a Dream, Donnie Darko, American Psycho, and Adam Wingard's films. It's rare to see such a strong and vivid madcap sense of humor in a low-budget indie film. The movie keeps progressing and escalating toward madness. You could take it as a metaphor for growing up and leaving the nest. The performances are all very much on point. And the camerawork, editing, and direction exhibit a level of impeccable craftsmanship that at times touches mastery. It operates with a strong cult classic vibe. There were hypnotic stretches where I was sitting there like, "Holy god almighty this is awesome." Very strong, strange trip that will absorb and zap you. Richard Burgin is definitely a filmmaker to watch.

I saw Fang at a festival in Madison and was blown away by this dark, twisted, but very entertaining movie which blends surreal body horror and domestic psychological dread, with a mother/son dynamic so dysfunctional, it rivals Norman Bates' maternal bond in Psycho. It helps that both performances by mother and son are electric and delightfully unpredictable, each tick and quirk feels earned. They are compulsively watchable and so is the film. I really felt transported into a subjective dreamscape that unravels into a nightmare. But despite some really immersive visuals and sound design, Fang never loses focus on its characters, keeping it grounded despite the fantastical premise. It's hard to believe this is a debut low-budget feature because it's already got such a distinct authorial voice and is so well put together in all aspects. It looks and sounds incredible and really sucks you in!

Richard Burgin delivers with Fang on all levels. Engaging story, great cinematography, killer sets and phenomenal acting by all especially the lead and Lynn Lowry. The chemistry between these two was excellent and kept you on edge. The rest of the cast was great. Very impressive score and sound design helped to get the frantic and nerve wracking scenes across. The use of the lighting and colors helped tell the story especially in the bar scenes. I can't forget the gory and realistic practical Fx that was in the movie. I'm a big fan of practical Fx and glad to see this in this film. Check this out and share the love!!