The Strange Ones

Greetings again from the darkness. Having been well received at film festivals throughout 2017, this film is journey of patience for both the characters and its viewers. Co-directors Christopher Radcliff and Lauren Wolkstein have expanded their 2011 short film into their first feature length film, and though some evidence of 'stretching' is present, so is a somber, moody style that provides an interesting look and feel.

It's more mysterious and atmospheric than it is thriller, and at times it even has a "Twilight Zone" vibe. Nick (Alex Pettyfer) and Sam (James Freedson-Jackson) are traveling together as brothers, though we never really believe they are related. An impending dread hovers around each move they make, and the film tortures/teases us with unspecified relationships and connections. Nick and Sam are semi-desperate and clearly on the run, yet it's not until the end when things somewhat come together.

Young Freedson-Jackson is the key to the film, and his facial reactions are critical. His astounding blank stares seem to hold meaning. It's a bleak film with a gloomy tone, and while I'm all for slow and deliberate story-telling, the technique is usually more effective when there is a reason for it. This is a deep cut indie that lacks mass appeal, but for those patient enough to commit, the supernatural aura will likely keep you engaged for the run time.

The movie starts with so much promise that at the end i was so disappointed as it completely loses its track. Starting makes many interest and questions as many mysterious events were occurring around the two men. But soon the movie looses it's course as it fails to hold the momentum. At the end it has little to offer.

The acting and direction are okay. but the plot seems to have many weak points. It is imaginary and has no depth in it.

I don't know how people give it so much rating point. It is a overrated movie in my view.

I like atmospheric. I like edgy. I like esoteric. I just don't like to be bludgeoned into a stupor with it. That's what watching the mega-weird murder mystery drama "The Strange Ones" conspired to do to me.

The only remotely redeeming aspects to recommend here is the spooky score by a pair of killer flutists and the performance of the great character actor Gene Jones.

The rest of this plodding trash can be tossed deep into that creepy cave and abandoned.

The movie's gravity pulled me in and I enjoyed the slow-burn pacing and indirect ways the story revealed itself. By the end however I had just as many questions as answers and while some reviewers obviously have enjoyed their own deconstructive interpretations, I just think the creators should have been more clear.

It was so good to see Alex Pettyfer trying something different in his career! His presence was so strong in this film, I would really love to see him make more movies like this. Really liked it :)