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| Images Courtesy of Mitch McLeod |
Director
Mitch McLeod's latest feature film is one of the most unsettling experiences of
the year. Known for his scripts and attention to detail, Marrow;
his latest offering is almost like an evolutionary display, transmitting what
could only be a natural, terrifying next incarnation of the young artist.
Featuring a bravura central performance, a genuinely creepy narrative, and a
terrific supporting case, this will be a must-see entry on the festival
circuit.
Jamie, a true
crime podcast host who goes by the moniker Distal Marrow, discovers a pattern
of missing women and inadvertently exposes herself to something
unnatural. As the police begin to circle and strangers seek her out,
Jamie must confront the darkness within if she is to have a chance.
McLeod wrote the script with Preston Fassel and Jessica Dawn Willis, who also
portrays Jaime. One of the things that becomes instantly apparent is that
dread is everywhere. From the cryptic words spoken to Distal from an
almost certainly dangerous caller to subtle conversations had between the main
characters, death is everywhere, and yet the principals are unable to stop
themselves.
This is an
enigmatic mystery whose twists and revelations have to be experienced firsthand,
and yet, the final answers to all of the questions may frustrate some viewers,
but to most, it will only enhance the paranoia and uncomfortable vibes that
emanate from virtually every scene. Willis disappears into her role as
Jamie/Distal and without her absolute dedication to the material, this film
would not work. One of the most surprising performances is a cameo by
Michael Ironside, who portrays a therapist that has been drawn into the
conspiracy. His scene with Willis is the centerpiece of the narrative,
with (wonderfully) confusing exposition and a gravitas that only an actor of
Ironside's talent could portray.
The final
aspect of this horrific puzzle is McLeod collaborator Evan Burns' vicious cinematography.
This is a film of multiple "worlds", places in time and places in the
shadows and the various representations of them are brought to life by Burns'
meticulous eye. Be it a television broadcast from beyond, grainy
video footage of unspeakable acts, or a supposed sanctuary in the woods, the
colors are both vibrant and muted, perfectly symbolizing not only the dichotomy
of reality and other dimensions, but also the dichotomy of the
soul.
Coming soon
to digital on demand, Marrow is a harrowing horror experience that overcomes
its small budget with disturbing implications and a creative approach to the
genre. The result is one of the year's best surprises.
--Kyle
Jonathan