For an alternative universe film, or what others may refer to as fan fiction, this is really well done. We enter the film where we are shown a crude map of the Mayers home, cementing the location. The story carries on with Michael Myers A. K. A The Shape (played by Zachary Hunsinger) escaping from the sanatorium (which is when the alternative universe comes into play.) We get to see how he creates his infamous mask. Great introduction into the film. This is when we are introduced to the main protagonist character, Max. Haddonfield, Illinoi, is a beautiful, picturesque location with a sinister dark past.
There are many great characters in this film. We follow Max (played by Marcos Justo) a young teen who seems to be attracted to the Mayers property, which of course has been sold to another family. Peter Mayers (played by Rich Gordon) who plays the role of the devastated father of Michael is trying to stop his son from killing more innocent people. Peter makes a decision that will change the trajectory of his life. Max is an interesting and curious teenager, a bit emo and odd. Devon Graham (played by Aaron Groben) is quite the character! His role in this film is of the usual American jock/surfy dude. He has some interesting characterisation to say the least. His bit on the side, Debbie (played by Katie Kay) plays her role really well. The terror on her face in the last scenes really propelled her acting in my opinion, it was visceral and authentic. There are side characters that help to push the narrative, that Micheal lurks everywhere. We see him appear in several shots. Michael obviously has carried out another killing spree, and no one is immune.
When the police enter the scene, there is an interesting dynamic happening, the rookie cop and the deputy. The chief of police (played by Brittney Clarke) is not a friendly character; not that I was expecting her to be - though she went a little overboard on the stressed out, authoritarian figure; a woman who perhaps has to prove herself as a staunch superior member of the force. The police played their roles with ruthless intent. Definitely the good cop, bad cop scenario and it worked. Though the only thing I can see that could have been done better, was to have blood on the knife after he killed an innocent victim, and at the end with the shootout, I would have liked to have heard the gunshots, instead of just the clicking sound of an empty gun. Other than that, I see no other issues.
There are a lot of moving parts in this film; though the storyline is clear to follow, the plot twist at the end is great. I really enjoyed the musical score, with sharp discordant notes really adding a frightful element. I appreciated the rage concert; a nice interlude as it helps to add layering and texture to the story arc. There are a few places of revelations about Michael and his history. I don't feel like you need to watch the Halloween films to grasp the story, it was a great standalone film. I actually felt like I was watching an authentic Halloween movie. The tones and mood changes were effective in enhancing the scenes. Since it's Halloween, October 31st, there is no doubt that Michael will find this night particularly nostalgic. The costumes and makeup were very good, and I can tell a lot went on in the background. Special effects were good and added a sinister element that of course I would expect from a film of this type.
Overall, this is worth a watch. It's different, but it does not depart from the character of Michael Myers in anyway, in fact I think it was an interesting concept that the entire team managed to pull off. Fan fiction is usually hit and miss, not with this one, it is purely about Michael. I recommend this to anyone interested in fan fiction or a golden gem of indie filmmaking at its best.
Reviewed by Del Gibson.
