Thursday 5 May 2011

My Film Review- The Last Message

Film- The Last Message shown
Certificate- 15

Oliver Quinton’s magnificent short film The Last Message explores the physiological breakdown of one man’s mind in this gripping but chilling search for love. Edited by Adam Marsh and Screenplay by Harry Bradford, these industry legends together have undeniably created something truly exceptional for all physiological thriller fans out there.
Set in a contemporary town, a heartbroken Alex is desperately trying to get in contact with his ex- partner Melissa because of his obsessed mentality with her. He will stop at nothing to find her as we watch him physically and physiologically crumble, leading to a horrific conclusion.
Quinton’s film is a rare canvas among short film studio productions. It is an exemplary piece of storytelling with an almost terrifying element to it. What distinguishes the film however is the way the film itself and the colours seem to breakdown and darken, mimicking the character whose life is being portrayed. Alex’s shocking mindset truly is something we see in society today and I believe that Quinton has depicted this issue tastefully but effectively. A selection of new, fresh actors always reminds us that this film is a good thriller and not a film that a certain someone stars in. The Last Message juxtaposes the grim world of a mental disorder with the ravages of love. Another positive aspect of this film is the narrative structure. Although in straightforward chronological order, we are hit with various sets of time lapses, a very important factor of this film, emphasising the lengths and time Alex goes through to speak to Melissa. However, a unique soundtrack is essential in any classic thriller, in which this film does not have.

This film reminds me of Mary Harron’s masterpiece, ‘The American Psycho’, in which a man’s mental instability and blood lust leads him to serial killing. Mainly due to the fact that the men in both films mirror one another, in the sense that although they have a good life with people surrounding them, both live in their own twisted minds they have created through there obsessive disorders.
I feel that the target audience is for anyone who loves a good thriller, but being more specific this film is definitely for male viewing. As scary as this may sound, I feel that any man can relate to certain traits and personality of Alex.

The Last Message is an enthralling piece of cinema. The performances are near perfect and the plot is gripping. Although no Alfred Hitchcock yet, Quinton has done himself proud with this fantastic, must watch thriller.                 

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