28/01/2022
New Film Spotlight:
“Old Strangers” is a brief thriller with an engaging story and palpable tension.
The dangers of COVID have wrought havoc on many people’s mental health. Folks who have been cooped up for so long inside and doing their best to remain safe and healthy are striving to find some form of solace; so, it would make sense if a group of friends planned a secluded get together out in nature. Michael (Ted Evans), Sarah (Madeleine Humphries), and Danny (Colton Eschief Mastro) do just that. After making sure their test results are negative, they all make their way to a cabin for a time away from reality.
Written and directed by Nick Gregorio, Old Strangers never comes out and bluntly says the words “COVID,” but it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to put two and two together when our characters are wearing masks and talking about “Quarantine life.” Establishing a reality we can relate to brings a surreal immersion to the film, providing a means for the audience to connect with the characters.
The relationship between the friends is endearing – the three have not seen each other for a while, and the joy they express in finally being together and talking in person is cute. That said, when the three go on a hike, they come across an alien-like plant that infects one of them, introducing a new nightmare into their lives that will test their friendship.
[Source: Bloody Disgusting]