The Apocalypse Box

Interesting locked in room with mysterious box horror genre' style movie with a bunch of "selected" individuals who each have a story as to why they are there. A politician set the game in play in hopes that he can manipulate the outcome of an election in a day or so to his advantage. Lots and lots of gore, unusual graphic violence, black magic, odd behaviors, creepy assistants. Kind of plays along using a very low budget, but gets the point across well, effects are sufficient and some are quite terrifying, nothing questionable, no nudity, some foul language. A few questions you may have at the end, what happened to the money, did the last person live, and what happens to the box next? All valid questions. Enjoy if you can not think to hard about it.

Let me start this review by stating that I don't understand the low ratings for this film - clearly something/someone has a weird agenda. Anyway, this is a professionally made film that reminded me - in the very best ways - of "Tales from the Dark Side" or "Tales from the Crypt". Furthermore, it takes inspiration from some of the dysfunction we currently are experiencing in national politics, which seems to be poisoning peoples' minds across the globe. So those who like more prescience to their stories, that box gets checked off, then there are the horror/gore aspects of the story that are well handled and slick. And I was also thankful that the acting was solid and kept me engaged, which often isn't the case with many independent films. The direction and production values are likewise very well done. James Eaves has created a fun horror romp that my wife, Ms. Snarkypants herself actually enjoyed - and she doesn't do horror. THAT'S saying something. So give "The Apoclypse Box" a watch. I think there is more than enough recommend to fans of the genre, and for those who appreciate the talent you can discover in independent film.

I was fascinated by Jim Eaves' previous film You Might Get Lost when I caught it at the Horror-on-Sea Festival a while back, and so had been greatly looking forward to The Apocalypse Box. It did not disappoint. This movie is whip-smart and dark as midnight, confidently mixing political satire with locked location tension and explosions of unexpected splatter. There are hints of Exam and Cube in the effective use of very limited locations but The Apocalypse Box is its own beast entirely, showcasing crackerjack performances and a beautifully pitched script. At 85 minutes or so it flies by, hurtling towards a bleak but memorable finale. I really, really dug it and recommend it without hesitation.

PLOT: A right-wing politician, aims to "Keep Britain British." On election eve, he gathers 6 strangers to unlock a wish-granting box. Ella, his spin doctor, faces chaos, scandal, and temptation with the mysterious "Apocalypse Box."

If you like poorly written and directed movies this one is your jam. Frankly, it's so silly I actually thought it was a comedy-satire!

It's not. It's just not all that good. The musical track is over the top dramatic, but it doesn't serve to make the movie better. It makes you realize how totally not dramatic or horrific the film is.

The movie takes forever to get going but then it goes nowhere! And what's with all the tight close ups? Who directs like that?

It was a bore.

From the opening credit sequence on, I was pleasantly surprised while watching The Apocalypse Box. So many low budget films have no plot, bad acting and look like the cinematographer had no idea what they were doing. I am pleased to say, Apocalypse Box had non of these issues!

Director James Eaves did a great job with a modest budget bringing this story to life. Corrinne Wicks did a phenomenal job portraying a high strung politicians wife who only wants the approval of her husband. Lead actress Lola Knight sold the premise of the film with her grounded performance.

If you are looking for a fun indie thriller that will make you jump, but still let you sleep tonight, then I suggest you give The Apocalypse Box a go.