"Brooklyn 45" is not exactly a horror film although there are some scary moments. It's best described as a filmed supernatural stage play. It's also a promising step forward for writer-director Ted Geoghegan, who previously delivered the tepid horror film "We Are Still Here" and the dreadful "Mohawk."
There are only two sets in this movie, the exterior of a Brooklyn street at Christmastime, and the interior of an apartment off the street. Excellent set design and dressing spare us from claustrophobia. An intriguing storyline and good special efx keep us watching.
The cast is excellent all around. Their acting is believable enough to sell the wild supernatural events. The period costumes and hair styles are well done.
The only quibble I have is with the high key lighting. The imagery is crisp and the camera work on point, but the flat, ultra bright lighting robs the film of much needed atmosphere, particularly in the seance scene. Whether the director wanted to showcase the period set dressing or was afraid a dark setting might be too claustrophobic, it's a weird directorial choice.
Considering the other paranormal events going on in the room, it would have made perfect sense for the lights to go off and on for variable periods, which would have added much needed spookiness to the proceedings.
