Psychosynthesis

I was looking forward to watching this film directed by Noam Kroll, who I've "followed" for a few years now. The plot and concept were interesting, and the cinematography itself was great... but I was rather disappointed in it. I felt the movie moved at a glacial pace, with A LOT of breathing space in between and within the scenes. I thought the first interesting thing (besides the concept) didn't occur until almost an hour in, and that's only 10 minutes before it ends. For a 71 minute film, I thought the story was stretched as much as it could've been. I didn't particularly care for the acting, although not a whole lot was required of the actors either. I also found some of the profanity odd (almost forced) in places, like the husband f-bombing his weak, sick wife to get in the car to go to the hospital, rather than (God forbid) helping her. The ending is justifiably ambiguous, but also has at least one major hole (unless I didn't see the fix) relating to the character "getting away with it." Overall, definitely a low-budget film that used the most of its resources, but I felt could've been better and at least a little more interesting.

As someone who's been following Noam Kroll's excellent blog for a while, I was very interested in seeing his second feature, Psychosynthesis. And while not perfect (the running time is too short to develop all the nuances of the characters), I'm really impressed with what Kroll has managed to achieve with such a limited time and budget. Despite its DIY nature, it sure looks like a real movie (more than some garbage I've seen on VOD) and the visuals are quite engrossing. The acting is good (specially the husband) and the low key nature of the project gives it some much needed authenticity. For people who like small and ambiguous character studies, Psychosynthesis is pretty much a must see even if it doesn't break any new ground. Nice job.

This unique, taut indie flick respects the art of filmmaking. It's evidenced by its creative cinematography and color grading, excellent music score, thriller-genre editing, and great use of the minimal locations. It is an impressive and enjoyable film.

She's an unpleasant, selfish, uncaring, vapid, empty woman in the beginning and nothing about those qualities changes. Luckily, it was a short sit. They get 3 stars because it's not flat-out awful (and because I watched a film of far worse quality earlier today, a film that was FAR more entertaining, ironically) in its construction, but it doesn't do anything interesting or new. Seems like a competently made student film, and that's fine, but is that enough? No. There are no character arcs, so you're left with a promise that the concerned, supportive husband and their child will receive more negative treatment. What was the point? It's anyone's guess.

Noam has done an amazing job writing directing and editing this film. Mysterious, chilling, assured and meditative cinema from start to finish. Superb acting by the whole cast, gorgeous 4x3 Cinematography/Lighting, great score. All around wow, heavy dark flick.

The plot evolves in a satisfying way with new information added in each scene... Alice's (Stephanie Pearson) step by step change from sick and fragile, into a force to be reckoned with, was well thought out and emotionally resonant, both script-wise, and acting-wise... definitely rattled me. You can see the darkness grow in her eyes as the scenes progress. I liked the twist with Johnny Day's character (will refrain from spoilers). Was also very impressed with Olive (Gracelyn Hanon Awad)!

Noam you are an inspiration to independent filmmakers everywhere. Can't wait to see the next one!