Story 1.00/2 - Direction & Pacing 2.25/4 - Performances 1.00/2 - Entertainment 1.00/2
Total 5.25/10.
Ah, "Parable," the possession horror comedy that left me possessed with mixed feelings. It's like ordering a meat feast pizza with extra toppings and getting plain cheese-sure, it's still pizza, but where's the excitement?
The premise demonstrates potential, a Pandora's box of possibilities awaiting opening. Regrettably, it appears the writers followed the path more travelled, consigning me to yearn for a road less cliché. The humour is as mild as Grandma's spice rack, and the narrative feels as though it's stuck in first gear, desperately searching for the elusive second.
The characters are about as complex as a stick figure. I mean, really? Must every South African youth be portrayed as a druggie? Talk about a stereotype on steroids. It's like they took a shortcut through a field of clichés instead of exploring the rich tapestry of diverse personalities available.
And let's talk about the direction. While there are a few visually pleasing shots, it's like a well-decorated cake with mediocre frosting. Parable required an ample sprinkling of creativity and a dash of unpredictability. Instead, we find ourselves on a straight road with no exciting detours.
Now, the group possession scenes. Oh boy. These zombies move slower than a sloth on sedatives, and their jerky motions are worse than a gangster doing a "Spandau Ballet". What should've been a thrilling dance of horror and humour is merely a tedious shuffle of irritation and stupidity.
Yet, I'll give credit where it's due-the performers do their best. It's a shame the script and direction didn't get the memo. Despite their efforts, they're like the heroes trying to save a sinking ship with a leaky bucket.
Ultimately, "Parable" is invariably like that okay-ish blind date. Sure, you'll typically survive it once but don't expect a second rendezvous. There are naturally plenty of better cinematic fish in the boundless sea. I suggest you go fishing to hook one of these and throw this one back.
