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| Images Courtesy of Antenna Films |
Mental
Illness can be a crippling factor in someone's life, limiting not only their
behaviors but their day to day routines. Cory Santilli's surreal
comedy-thriller In the Mouth blends various genres to convey a unique
approach to phobias, projection, and guilt. Presenting its subject matter
in classic black and white colors, Santilli showcase's a hilarious and
disturbing story about agoraphobia and murder. Featuring a
perfectly disjointed script, laugh out loud dialogue, and surprisingly crisp
visuals this is one of the sleeper hits of the year.
Merl is a shut-in, who has changed his house to accommodate his debilitating condition.
The revelation of why he cannot leave the house combines with the arrival
of a new roommate, the result of which is a cocktail of madness and
murder. Santilli also wrote the script, which wears its influences on its
sleeve. Comparisons to Lynch and Aster will be unavoidable, however, it is
the presence of various criminal elements that elevate the narrative.
This is a strange film that doesn't always work, but when it hits, it is
extremely funny and this is carried by Colin Burgess's leading
performance. His ability to portray fear and anxiety is palpable.
His performance is also bolstered by Paul Rothery's unnerving and equally awkward performance as Merl's new roommate who may or may not be hiding something. Beyond their interplay, the concept of being dominated by one's own fears is central to the narrative, which enhances the dynamic of the duo. This is accentuated by Mike Malginick's moody black and white cinematography. There is an almost noirish vibe to the scene compositions and interplay, that are all drenched in shadow and mystery which creates an environment of paranoia that acts an extension of Merl’s crippling condition.
The final ingredient is Rebecca Mattis’ art direction. The bulk of the narrative transpires within Merl’s abode, and Mattis’ keen eye for details shines in virtually every space that is inhabited, presenting everything as a carefully orchestrated fever dream. The final yield is a strange, yet intriguing horror comedy that resonates.
Now available for digital rental, In the Mouth is an oddity that deserves attention. A brilliant central performance combines with a unique approach to mental illness that is equal parts hilarious and uncomfortable. There are many films that use symbolism and analogy to explore the challenges of mental health struggles, however Santilli and his commendable crew manage to rise above the status quo and deliver a truly remarkable experience via a surreal nightmare.
--Kyle
Jonathan