Occasionally a film engages the audience to gasp, or to talk out loud to the characters. Rarely, is a film crafted well enough to elicit both gasps and dialog from the audience. Victim is one of those rare films and what the psychological thriller gender is all about - the complexities of human behavior presented in a way that makes you see something, someone in a way you never imagined you could. Psychologically accurate, this short film is beautifully shot, compellingly acted, tightly written, and subtlety scored.
Like Alfred Hitchcock, Mark Battle engages an audience to go on a journey that they would not normally take. Equally disturbing are the discoveries made about the characters and how the viewer's alliance shifts as the story progresses. Co-written by Mr. Battle and Chris Fuoco the dialog is kept to a minimum allowing the acting and actions of the characters to tell the story. First time actor Mariah Gale is convincing as Abby the wannabe victim exhibiting talent that goes far beyond her experience. Chris Fuoco, plays the serial killer with extraordinary grace and subtlety, choosing to reveal the killer's shifting emotions with barely perceptible changes in his eyes, face and posture. His portrayal is as beautiful as it is terrifying.
Victim, like any great film, stays with you long after you leave the theater Not because of carnage, special effects, or gratuitous sex; but because it touches and moves you. My kudos to Mr Battle, his cast and crew for a job well done and an treasured experience.
