"The Shade" is a deceptive film, masquerading as a traditional horror flick but revealing itself to be a poignant exploration of grief, depression, and the lengths we will go to protect those we love.
The film follows Ryan, who is grappling with the loss of his father. As he attempts to maintain a semblance of normalcy for his family, his older brother begins exhibiting increasingly disturbing behavior.
What sets "The Shade" apart is its refusal to rely on cheap scares or jump scares. Instead, it delves deep into the emotional turmoil experienced by its characters. The horror is not supernatural, but rather the psychological torment inflicted by grief and loss. The film's pacing is deliberate, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the characters' struggles which is why I want to clearly state, that this is not a horror film. Because those expectations will have you starting to squirm in your seat thirty minutes into its two hour plus run-time.
The performances are exceptional, with Chris Galust (Ryan) delivering a raw and emotionally charged portrayal of a young man struggling to cope with immense pain. The supporting cast is equally impressive, adding depth and nuance to the story.
While "The Shade" may not be the adrenaline-fueled horror film that some may be expecting, it is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition.
