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| Images Courtesy of Fryman Films |
Tyler
Savage's latest horror film is perhaps his best work yet. Having reviewed
his previous offering Inheritance, this is a huge step forward in his
artistic development. Oddities blends comedy, crime, and
Lovecraftian horror into a story of two drug-addled fugitives on the
lamb. Featuring an out of this world ensemble cast, a poignant and
hilarious script, and one of the most unique mashups in recent memory, this is
a must see for horror fans.
Rosie and McKenna are two drug addicts with different approaches to their lives: Rosie is attempting to get clean (sort of) with the help of her brother and McKenna lives a carefree, chaotic existence. In the wake of a tragedy the pair go on the run from the law and from violent criminals and find refuge in a strange antique store that holds many terrifying secrets. Savage also wrote the script, which takes inspiration not only from eldritch horror, but also the post Pulp Fiction neo-noirs of the early 90's. There is a genuine sense of not only existential dread, but an almost rebellious stride in meeting oblivion that is embodied by Lovie Simone's McKenna. Her comedic timing is excellent and is the perfect foil to Lilimar's Rosie. Their banter and interplay are hilarious and heartbreaking in equal amounts.
This is a three act play essentially, in which the first act involves a tragic crime and an escape while the second is the meat on the bone, in which the characters enter the antiquities store owned by the always fabulous Adrienne Barbeau. Her husband is played by Xander Berkley (Candyman) and this duo of legendary character actors is the main event. Ultimately this is a story about breaking the cycle of addiction and facing one’s fears and this is made possible by the final act when things go off the rails forcing fear to change to vengeance and the final yield is a laugh out loud, blood-soaked good time.
Antonio Cisneros’ kinetic cinematography is another potent attribute. There is a cat and mouse segment within the store that is expertly lensed, creating both a sense of dread while also setting up some gore-filled slapstick. This is enhanced by Jordan Blasé’s set decoration. While the apartments of the first act feel soiled and ruined, the shop itself with its various curios feels both alien and familiar, which further serve to enhance to supernatural vibes that are yet to come.
Coming hopefully very soon to video on demand, Oddities is absolutely worth the time of any horror fan. Creatively mixing genres and subverting a tried-and-true formula to inject otherworldly terrors, Savage and his incredibly talented crew have delivered something truly special that demands attention.
--Kyle
Jonathan