Pesadilla

I'm going to say right off the bat-would I watch this film again? Maybe, but not for a while. That said, I was not expecting it to go where it did. I'm leaving this review because right now, future filmmakers are on platforms like Tubi and Amazon, and there will always be trolls who leave low ratings just to be trolls. But I understand what this film was going for, and I can see how it could be exactly what someone is looking for-especially if they go in with no expectations.

To be honest, I probably would've landed right in the middle on this film if it weren't for the last 15 minutes. That final stretch burned away any preconceived ideas I had, making the rest of the film that much more enjoyable in hindsight. My biggest fear while watching was that it would lead to some kind of shootout between the grandpa and the intruders-but it wasn't. IT WASN'T. And I was relieved.

Quite frankly, I don't see how anyone could give this film lower than a five. Sure, not everything will resonate with everyone, but at an hour and 52 minutes, it feels shorter than its runtime and introduces some of the most unique themes I've ever seen in a film this small in scale. It features sinister dialogue-including a bizarre yet compelling reference to The Andy Griffith Show-a whole therapy technique developed specifically for one character that drives the narrative, family subject matter most films wouldn't dare to touch, horrifying imagery, and dialogue that, while sometimes odd, honestly made me chuckle.

This film is by no means perfect, and again, I don't know when I'd rewatch it, but it's undeniably a singular vision. Films like this don't deserve a one-star rating just because someone's in a bad mood. There's definitely room for improvement, but I applaud the filmmakers for actually trying to create something unique in today's climate. It probably could have been executed a bit better, but if I were the director, I'd make sure to go all in from now on-bringing in people with the same passion and expertise to elevate the craft.

Also, the soundtrack? It kind of rocks. At times, it sounds like something out of old Hollywood rather than the same synthetic cues we hear in most films of this scale.

I didn't love this film, but I also didn't hate it. More than anything, I respect it.

Pesadilla" is a haunting and atmospheric psychological thriller that delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche and mental health struggles. Directed by Dylan Anglin, this film grips viewers from the opening scene and refuses to let go until the credits roll. Anglin's direction is masterful, creating a palpable sense of tension and unease that permeates every frame. The cinematography is striking, with stark contrasts and clever use of light and shadow adding to the film's eerie atmosphere. The standout performance comes from veteran actor Mike Davis, whose portrayal of Gramps is both masterful and disturbing. Overall Pesadilla is a compelling story with chilling visuals including standout practical effects by Hunter Groves. Anglin proves himself to be a talent to watch in the world of indie horror, and Pesadilla is a promising film that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats, and with an uneasy feeling on the drive home.

When you see high ratings for an indie with a sub-100 view count, you can be forgiven when your bs detector starts to hum a little.

I think they're warranted in this case. I'm not offended by friends & family showering this with 5s or whatever.

Because it's really something else.

It's loaded with loopy characters & fun performances. Has a scene with a hot tattooed girl in her underwear. No nudity though. It has an absurd ending that made me kinda happy. Whoever made this didn't just throw a bunch of nonsense at the wall & hoped that some of it would stick. He's got a real sense of humor & timing, i think.

My only major criticism is that it's a touch too long. If it was 90m, i'd be truly piping hot on it instead of highly keen.

Good one, nevertheless. Worth a watch if you're looking for something small & silly & a little baffling.

Tbh, most micro budget films are something along the lines of crime or chasing someone around with a knife. I couldn't help but get the same feeling as something like Primer, or Following. I mean this film makes a convincing (yet terrifying) point in regards to the Andy Griffith show which is something you don't see often on this scale, the "outrageous metaphors". Shocking moments, tough subject matter, a final 5 minutes that are admittedly more iconic than the actual film and iconic in itself. The grandpa character was extremely well written, and the performance was superb. I liked this film, it was different.

There really isn't another film like PESADILLA. Bizarre and unpredictable, and the characters are outlandish and fun. Dylan Anglin's made some other short films and they all have twists and turns and are funky. Kapadia's character is particularly weird and off-kilter. What's amazing is how a film like this can be brought o life on such a minimal budget. This would've been very difficult even 20 years ago. It's nice the film is available on several platforms, as more films like this should be given attention. So, if you're ready to step away from the usual Hollywood pap and slow-burn blah blah, jump in. Highly recommended!