Mike

It's been over 7 years since we last saw Peachfuzz in Creep 2 and the hype for me has been through the roof. Episode 1, titled Mike, begins the journey of The Creep Tapes in a setting that is as frigid as the performance given by Mark Duplass. There's no better way than to kick the series off in a remote cabin with a blizzard outside, where outside the cabin lies an unforgiving and harsh storm, but inside the faux safe walls of the cabin an even deadlier storm is brewing. The cold, isolated cabin mirrors the chilling unpredictability of his manipulations, with Duplass' portrayal deepening unease and quickly building tension.

The tension in the episode builds relentlessly, with Peachfuzz pushing Mike into a situation that continues to spiral. What starts as a seemingly benign audition quickly spirals into a claustrophobic nightmarish delight, the contrast between the blizzard outside and the storm brewing in the situation is incredible. You can feel Mike's unease, his regret of choice, and his discomfort.

As Peachfuzz draws Mike further into his web, the discomfort escalates, and Duplass' performance shines. Upon nearing the end of the 25 minute episode, we're met with a chilling monologue outside, one that deepens the unsettling atmosphere and reveals the true nature of the character.

The Creep Tapes are a great addition to the found footage genre and episode 1 showcases just how well tuned in Mark and Patrick Brice are into the series. While the twist or shock of the series can be lost at points, the performance by Duplass and the directing by Patrick Brice creates something special. There's a real beauty in this kind of slow burn, a tension that builds with every look, every seemingly harmless question. It's the kind of horror that lingers long after the credits roll.

I've been eagerly awaiting a follow-up to the Creep films for a long time. Mark Duplass created a compelling narrative for the serial killer he portrays, and his performance in both films was nothing short of captivating.

I never expected him to turn the story into a TV show, so I was intrigued to see how it would unfold. The first episode retains the same format as the films-Mark's character invites someone to his home, and then things take a dark and twisted turn. His portrayal is incredibly unsettling, delivering an authentic creepiness that feels both natural and chilling.

What truly makes this series stand out is Mark's extraordinary acting. His ability to embody such an unnerving character is remarkable, and it elevates every scene. The horror elements towards the end of the episode are intense, and the dialogue is dripping with tension and unease.

If the first episode is any indication, we're in for a truly spine-chilling series.