They Still Live

Just meh, shockingly bad. I have seen a lot of fan films that work but this is certainly not one of them. The whole tone of the shooting just didn't fit the world of They Live.

In terms of story, it goes through without saying much, to be honest, it could have used something else happening in the end. I know it's a 15 minute short film, but I'm sure this could have done more.

I really enjoyed the concept of what's said by the character Vanessa to the main character about "the movie", I thought it was a great idea, worth of exploiting more, well done with that!

In terms of performances, it's a mixed bag, some times affected by the direction, I guess, for example the main character does a good job in general but has a couple of cringe moments going on here and there.

Special mention to Jeff Odachowski as the senator James Gier, GREAT job! I really enjoyed his performance, and it surprised me to see he's a really cool stunt man with a long career, I'd like to see more of him.. The fighting scene was ok, could definitely use a bit more of choreography and some practical effects.

The weakest point for me is the cinematography. It really makes this look bad and amateurish. With a better work there it could have done SO much better, it's a shame how some filmmakers (specially in short films, and when they're not coming from photography into directing) ignore this aspect. The image is a big part of the story in a film, ("an image says more than...")and it should never be overlooked!

I think there's a remake in works of They Live, and I've always thought it's one of the biggest deserving movies for a remake (or continuation, but in this case remake would be welcome).

Anyways, decent film, welcomed theme! Maybe one day I'll follow your steps..