The Black Gloves
Before I continue with the review let me just say that The Black Gloves is a VAST IMPROVEMENT over Brewster's previous Owlman film. The production value has exceptionally risen in terms of acting, cinematography, editing and visual storytelling. In his earlier work I was able to recognize moments of cleverness, significant ideas buried within and a unique voice peeking through. This is the first film I can confidently say that all those aspects have come into fruition.
Brewster returns to the story of the Owlman, this time blending gothic horror and noir with an arthouse aesthetic. At moments the film has a similar tone to the work of Jean Rollin, the way in which Brewster poeticizes death. At times it tends to have the visual feel of a gothic Bava film but leans more on the visual style of classic gothic films from Hollywood. I am pleased to say that his vision storytelling wise and visually is one of a kind and can't be compared to many directors, therefore creating a unique cinematic world.
Unlike Lord of Tears Brewster decides to utilize a more atmospheric approach to evoke the feeling of terror, which is effective and is complimented by black and white cinematography. The photography in this film is nothing short of gorgeous. I took note of Brewster's use of the wide angle lens and subtle dutch angles. As a cinematographer myself I highly admire that.
Lastly, I am happy that there is finally a "new monster" introduced into cinema. There has not been one that stood out to me that is considered significant since the days of 70's/80's horror (Michael Myers, Freddy Krueger, Jason etc.) The Owlman's visual look, and presence on screen is is appealing and leaves me wanting more..
Before I continue with the review let me just say that The Black Gloves is a VAST IMPROVEMENT over Brewster's previous Owlman film. The production value has exceptionally risen in terms of acting, cinematography, editing and visual storytelling. In his earlier work I was able to recognize moments of cleverness, significant ideas buried within and a unique voice peeking through. This is the first film I can confidently say that all those aspects have come into fruition.
Brewster returns to the story of the Owlman, this time blending gothic horror and noir with an arthouse aesthetic. At moments the film has a similar tone to the work of Jean Rollin, the way in which Brewster poeticizes death. At times it tends to have the visual feel of a gothic Bava film but leans more on the visual style of classic gothic films from Hollywood. I am pleased to say that his vision storytelling wise and visually is one of a kind and can't be compared to many directors, therefore creating a unique cinematic world.
Unlike Lord of Tears Brewster decides to utilize a more atmospheric approach to evoke the feeling of terror, which is effective and is complimented by black and white cinematography. The photography in this film is nothing short of gorgeous. I took note of Brewster's use of the wide angle lens and subtle dutch angles. As a cinematographer myself I highly admire that.
Lastly, I am happy that there is finally a "new monster" introduced into cinema. There has not been one that stood out to me that is considered significant since the days of 70's/80's horror (Michael Myers, Freddy Krueger, Jason etc.) The Owlman's visual look, and presence on screen is is appealing and leaves me wanting more..