You'll want to ignore the intro host bit with this one. It is god awful! But if you're a glutton for punishment, I can't stop you.
This is one of a collection of anthologies I dub the "Presents Anthology Series" that are comprised of the winners of different indie horror film festivals.
"Indie" doesn't necessarily mean bad; and a low budget doesn't necessarily mean a poor production value. This anthology presents us with some of the best indie tales, crafted by some of the most competent up-and-comers from the indie horror industry. Whether they made it to the big leagues or not, nearly every entry is top notch.
This anthology has a rough start due to the fact that, while the first couple of stories are incredibly unique and interesting ideas, they don't fully flesh themselves out enough and ultimately struggle to reach a satisfying conclusion, with "Blind Vacation" being the worst offender. However, the last five stories are completely solid entries. And, my oh my, there are some DOOZIES in this line-up! "Cakeboy," "Fools Gold," and "Coffee With Friends" are incredibly surreal, or even kafkaesque in their nature. "A Super Surprise" takes up a decent chunk of the runtime, but it's a pretty wild ride from start to finish.
We are treated to 7 tales.
Below are brief Plot Summaries:
A Thing of Dreams:
What if a drug existed that allowed the user to manipulate their dreams? For a young couple, the prospect becomes all too real. 7/10
Blind Vacation:
Fully committed to achieving new levels of mental clarity, two sisters may bite off more than they can chew when they take on a bizarre challenge. 5/10
A Nightmare of a Night:
Left alone in a rental home after her plans fall through, a young girl becomes the victim of a deranged lunatic. 8/10
Cakeboy:
A somewhat gluttonous and contemptible man receives a cake in the mail. 6/10
A Super Surprise:
Seeking respite from their journey, a group of kids and their father take shelter at their friend's guest house, only to find out that they've picked up extra baggage along the way. 7/10
Fools Gold:
A gold digger who strikes it big has a grim run-in with a stygian harbinger bearing bad news. 9/10
Coffee With Friends:
Kafkaesque in nature, a motley and eccentric crew gather for good coffee and wholesome conversation. 7/10.
