This is all I love about indie film making. The writer, director, and actor Patrick Gleason had a wonderful idea. A man is washed up on the outskirts of a city. Unsure of who he is, he embarks on a journey of understanding and reawakening. This is based on a futuristic city that has fallen under the influence of evil.
This has more of a Dark Fantasy feel than that of a Horror flick. Though there are some gory moments along the way. The melting man by the side of the hazardous waste cans is pretty nice.
What I liked the most is the atmosphere Gleason gives the film. The city is gritty, dark, and strange... very strange.
Milkmen now roam the cities roads picking up the dead instead of dropping off cartons and bottles... or are they collecting the empties(?) A presenter and camera crew from the National Lottery are knocking on doors giving away trips to Paradise, for lucky winners. Zombie-like people shamble around the neighbourhoods - are these really Zombies or just stoned crack-heads(?): You're never too sure. Every two years, the skies open up and deluge the city in acid rain. And every night, the dead man comes out in his chauffeur-driven limousine to hit-and-run any unlucky person out on the streets.
This is one bizarre world Gleason has created here... and it works. It works not just because of the writing and direction but also with thanks to the acting. Surprisingly, Gleason has got himself a decent cast of actors and actresses. Only Rico Cymone, Phinneas, and Bruce McCoy, the street hustler, come across as camp and a little over the top; though I strongly believe this is how it was intended. Gleason is strong as the lead, Hunter. While the lead support cast is just as powerful. I especially liked Nancy Rhee's performance as Joy and John Hammond's portrayal as The Dead Man, Vincent. I have to take my hat off to Robert Mack who is the Lucky Lotto Dealer for being so open-eyed and still not blinking - very unnerving.
To be honest, there's not much wrong with this film; even the limited special effects work well. It's not the best Indie film created but it is certainly, interesting, enjoyable, thought-provoking, and watchable. If you get the chance to watch this film then I would recommend you do so.
