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| Images Courtesy of Vertical |
Covid and
other pandemic related horror films have become a popular sub genre in the last
five years. Dalila Droege's debut feature film, No More Time is an
interesting, yet flawed addition to this burgeoning pantheon. While it
wears its politics on its sleeve and dials up the stereotypes that came to the
fore during the pandemic, it also presents an interesting premise and a denouement that
reflects on nature's role in the ongoing tragedy of humanity. Featuring a
strong ensemble performance, gorgeous Colorado visuals, and disquieting
violence, Droege's statement shows a lot of promise for what is hopefully soon
to follow with respect to her filmmaking career.
Hilaire and Steve flee Texas for Colorado in the midst of a strange pandemic that turns its victims into violent killers or simply erases them from reality. What follows is a brooding meditation on survival and the insignificance of mankind in the presence of the Earth. Droege co-wrote the script with Jennifer Harlow who also stars as Hilaire. Her performance is easily the strongest, showcasing a broad range of emotions. One of the strongest aspects of her performance is her pragmatism and understanding of the constant danger. She fights when she must, but is always cautious and concerned for her partner, Steve. Mark Reeb's performance as Steve is the counterbalance, a risk taker who is trying desperately to maintain his humanity through love, friendship, and humor. Rounding out the cast is Tunde Adebimpe as thoughtful and helpful Noah and David Sullivan (Primer, Justified) as a villainous neighbor Chuck. Amy Siemetz (Upstream Color) and Jim Beaver (The Boys, Supernatural) make voice cameos.
Jay Keitel's cinematography is lavish, framing the Colorado environs in bright natural colors that are juxtaposed with rows of abandoned buildings. The characters are framed almost at arm's length, mimicking the omnipotent role that nature plays throughout the narrative. Elements of horror and the supernatural are interspersed, captured by Keitel with deep shadows and lonely blues, increasing the paranoia and desperation of the principles. The result is a gripping story that is very clearly a byproduct of the trauma the cast and crew experienced during Covid.
Now available for digital streaming, No More Time may repulse some viewers, either because of their experiences during the pandemic or perhaps their exhaustion at the endless debate over political views that continues to fracture America. However, if the viewer is looking for a fresh take on the apocalyptic and pandemic genres, this could be considered a new gem in the crown.
--Kyle
Jonathan