FEEDBACK begins with the main character dying in the opening scene...or does he? From there, the relentless pace never lets up. There are no flashbacks and the story is entirely linear, taking place in just over 24 hours. This is one helluva ride.
FEEDBACK is a compelling piece of sci-fi noir, with a completely unique take on the concept of time manipulation. The storyline is carefully worked out, and the pacing is quick; each time a question arises, it is answered by the events that follow. The device used to alter time is totally plausible, and doesn't require as big a leap of faith as some other films in the genre. The acting is consistently solid, and the characters are likable despite their motivations. One aspect of the story that was especially interesting, and a bit more real, was the fact that these people focused on personal gain over some sort of higher cause. Which is most likely what would really happen, if this device actually did exist. A bit more character development would have been nice, but this is a minor issue and did not prevent me from being drawn into the story.
Production value? Phenomenal. This film appears to have been shot on location, in and around the Los Angeles area. Considering that it was made for less than the first BLAIR WITCH PROJECT, there's no comparison here--FEEDBACK looks so much better. The music is the film's other secret weapon. Finally, a film score that takes an aggressive approach from start to finish, without ever lapsing into the same old orchestral stuff that has all been done before. There are elements of drum n bass, industrial, techno, grindcore, and ambient music here. The bangin' mix of dissonant sonic textures is a refreshing change from the norm, and totally drives the picture, with the subway chase sequence being one of the high points.
FEEDBACK is easily one of the best truly independent films that I've seen, for several reasons. First off, the film itself, in the areas discussed above. Second, this is total DIY guerilla filmmaking, which can quickly be determined by following the `external reviews' link right here on imdb. This was not a studio backed, 7-figure `indie' designed to get street cred for a bunch of suits. The phrase `independent film' gets thrown around a lot, but this film is a true representation of the term. The filmmakers here have accomplished the damn near impossible task of not only making the film, but also getting multiple festival awards and actually following through to get distribution--all apparently on their own. Those who have any knowledge of filmmaking will recognize what an achievement that is.
This film really challenges the audience, and much like MEMENTO, requires that the viewer pay total attention as the story unfolds. Ironically, this aspect will most likely polarize opinions of the film: those who are able to follow the story will be rewarded by the unexpectedly complex plot twists; those who do not follow the story will end up completely confused and lose the plot entirely. Cool by me, as there's plenty of other entertainment that's geared to the LCD.
FEEDBACK gets my highest recommendation. If you're a sci-fi fan, by all means check out this movie, and you'll be challenged as well as entertained. The storyline is intriguing, the acting is solid, and the music and production are top of the game.
