Lifechanger - Die Gestaltwandler

"Lifechanger" could have been a good movie...but it is not. The theme of shape-shifter successfully used in the gem "The Hidden" (1987), or "Fallen" (1998), is poorly used in "Lifechanger". The screenplay is lame and never works, with an awful and unpleasant narrative in off and none character development that are presented in one-dimension. The unknown cast is acceptable for a low-budget film and they do their best with the terrible script. The locations are also selected in accordance with the budget supported by poor cinematography. The attempt to make an ambiguous conclusion in the gross style of David Cronemberg does not work. Better off watch "The Hidden" again, one of the best cult-movies of this genre. My vote is five.

Title (Brazil): 'Lifechanger"

If you just expect a horror movie, you'll be disappointed. This is an example of how you can tell a beautiful story (drama / romance) supported by horror elements. 'Lifechanger' does it very well. I watched knowing nothing about it and I was pleasantly surprised. I don't quite like clear-cut films; I prefer when genres intertwine to produce something unique. Indie films don't have to follow the rules as much as bigger productions, so they sometimes give us little gems like this one. However I do understand that horror buffs might feel misled about the trailer; hence why I never watch them!

A bizarre and original story with a few flaws. A mysterious and creepy treat for those who enjoy horror.

Lifechanger follows a serial killing shapeshifter who needs to change bodies so often or else he will die. A fun concept that can be explored in film. Yet, the implementation makes the low-budget nature of this film too obvious. From cheesy noise effects to random changes in pacing. This film tries to achieve much yet has flaws that can be suspense breaking.

Yet, I respect that this film focuses less on jumpscare and more on suspense building. The blood and guts can be toned down and the film remain powerful. Conflict feels like it's dished out to the audience instead of a more natural flow. If only the directors knew to rely less on cheaper effects for more powerful storytelling.

Acting is excellent throughout. Each character giving their own spin on the film. It's a bit tragic and sad with more emphasis on drama than horror.

2.5/5.

McConnell's film places the main character in the role of both protagonist and antagonist. A shapeshifter, unsure of what it truly is, fighting emotionally against its own nature and drive to survive. Told in amplified conceptual storytelling, the film flows with a hint of melancholy juxtaposed against frantic horrific circumstances. It is all more "art film" than traditional horror.

The acting is top shelf, and there is a consistency in identity that is maintained in the many actors who all play the main character Drew. It is an exceptionally hard task to maintain, and a necessity to make a story of this unique nature work. Kudos to both the director and casting. A voice narration lapped over the film by the original Drew helps but had not McConnell's writing been so strong, the story could have easily become muddled.

The special effects are bone-cracking, visceral moments of practical, gooey delight. Unfortunately they are short-lived moments for most of the film , which moves pretty quickly. Perhaps if the pace were slower more time to enjoy the horror transformations could have been had, just saying. The pace also cripples the ability to really be vexed by the emotion and drama put forth in "Lifechanger". Still it is a good movie and definitely worth watching

Not as bad as many say...If you look at it from the philosophical point of view,the film asks ,in it's own way.questions,that makes life miserable for thinking people:Who am I?Why I'm here?Is it really me or a mask?What is love,if we are the ones always to destroy it anyway???Not a horror,more of a essay about meaning of life...Look at it that way and it is pretty clever film...I liked it.