Mesmerizing Dive: Reality Meets the Supernatural

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MOVIE REVIEW
Don’t Look Away
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Genre: Horror
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 21m
Director(s): Micheal Bafaro
Writer(s): Micheal Bafaro, Michael Mitton
Cast: Kelly Bastard, Michael Mitton, Colm Hill
Where To Watch: will be released theatrically in 20 major markets by Level 33 Entertainment in select theaters on September 1, 2023

RAVING REVIEW: Alright, have you ever thought a mannequin, often associated with window shopping, could transform into something that might just give you nightmares? Enter DON’T LOOK AWAY, where Michael Bafaro takes seemingly benign objects and casts them into the spotlight of suspense, ensuring you’re on the edge of your seat – maybe even peeking through your fingers! A mix between 1987’s MANNEQUIN and 2014’s IT FOLLOWS; we get a new twist on the horror genre.

Central to this eerie narrative is our protagonist, Frankie, brilliantly portrayed by Kelly Bastard. Following a jarring incident, her life is turned upside down as a sinister mannequin pursues her. I promise, while the premise sounds cheesy, it’s anything but! Yet, the frights aren’t exclusive to her. As events unfold, her circle of friends is entangled in the growing darkness, their bond becoming the solitary beam of light in the encroaching gloom.

Bafaro plays it smart in DON’T LOOK AWAY, opting for suspense over shock. Instead of assaulting the senses with grisly visuals, he engages the viewer’s mind, offering tantalizing glimpses into the aftermath, prompting our imaginations to run wild and heightening the tension. What you don’t see may actually end up being the most terrifying part of the entire film!

But let’s remember the unsung heroes behind the scenes. Thanks to Athan Merrick’s eye for detail, the visual aesthetics seamlessly blend with the haunting soundtrack provided by Matt Dauncey and Phil Western. Together, they transport us to a world that captivates us from the opening scene to the final credits. This is the true definition of a “group project” the film is a combined effort from all cast and crew that combines to form the next horror hit.

In the grand tapestry of horror, DON’T LOOK AWAY shines brightly, primarily due to the phenomenal narrative and performances. Bastard’s role as Frankie deserves special applause and will likely remain etched in viewers’ memories. Seasoned horror fans might unearth more depth and connections with what you think you saw; you did not see aspect. My biggest knock would be that I would have liked a further exploration into the main characters’ backstories; it could have further enriched the experience, giving us a complete story.

In conclusion, DON’T LOOK AWAY is more than just a tick on your movie checklist. It’s a mesmerizing delve into the depths of emotions, relationships, and the fine line between reality and the supernatural. This would be best experienced with a group; this type of horror film is custom-made for your friend’s imaginations to play tricks on them.

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[photo courtesy of INDUSTRYWORKS STUDIOS, LEVEL 33 ENTERTAINMENT]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals’ extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I’m steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

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