Stasis

It isn’t often that an online film will make my day.  However, after a few desultory movie going experiences recently I have become a little short of optimism in terms of great science fiction film making.  Then along came this beauty. The fact that I have found it online has put a smile on my face that will take longer than twenty four hours to remove.

Stasis is quite an exceptional piece of film making.  For a start there is a story – a real one and not just a situation in which an A-lister gurns through the motions until the unavoidable optimistic ending.

The movie has a definite vibe too, which is one of almost unrelieved sobriety throughout and when one likes one’s science fiction of a darker hue then this is the perfect antidote to the plethora of SciFi Lite with which we have to make do at the moment.

The plot is straightforward – at least on preliminary inspection. At some point in the near future a soldier is undergoing a series of virtual exercises in order to cure his Post Traumatatic Stress Disorder.  Through the simulations he catches glimpses of a girl – one he feels he must have had some sort of serious relationship with.

Then a stranger appears in the facility in which he is being treated with a promise.  Do what he says or the soldier will never see the girl again.

The film boasts an excellent and enigmatic cast.  Reshad Strik is a revelation in the main role and Beau Bridges and Ernie Hudson bring different but balanced measures of menace to the screen.  Although Rachel Specter’s role is somewhat limited she brings a lovely presence to an otherwise bleak cinematography.

The movie for me brought to mind Children of Men in parts because the future is painted in a realistic manner.  It is different enough to feel somewhat foreign but familiar enough to resonate and be recognisable.

If you are naturally a page flicker when online, as I am, then you may have to persevere with the first few minutes – but be assured that your patience will be richly rewarded.  Hats off to director Christian Swegal and everyone else involved in this awesome piece of dystopic film making.