Sometimes a film is made that takes a new look at an old concept and asks it questions. This film does that.
It's easy for a critic to focus on technical or structural details they feel could have been done differently, but at the end of the day, the beauty of a well done indie film isn't special effects or big name actors, it's the story, the characters, and the freedom to make a film that isn't just another recycled formulaic plot. When I look at an indie film, I ask what it brings to the table that hasn't been done before.
Like the first film to put zombies on the table - "Night of the Living Dead" - "The Other Side" does it right. The filmmakers obviously understand their budget and focus on where they can shine. They create a film that is entertaining, makes you think, and will inspire others. The film is clever enough to nod, deliberately and tongue-in-cheek, to the genre clichés, but it definitely delivers new ideas.
It's a fun film, well shot, and the final product reflects the enthusiasm of the actors and filmmakers to do something fresh and interesting. There are more than enough scenes in this film where you forget you're watching a movie and become enthralled by the story, and for me, that's the hallmark of any good film - indie or otherwise.
