Static Codes

This is solid drama about an alien abduction that focuses on those who are left behind and living in their loss, grief, and confusion. The lead character, played by Shane Woodson in a strong performance, has lost it all after an alien abduction and spends his nights reaching out on air with others obsessed with this phenomenon. The script is very cued in on the "us v. Them" and "you're with us or you're not" personalities that define this space. The script also understands the obsessive quality of those caught in a helpless state with no obvious leads out of it. It's a twisted path out of that hopelessness with some surprise twists and a redemption arc that the characters believably pull off. The cinematography is also strong, reflecting the characters inner states. I wished the alien aspect was explored more but I was emotionally involved in seeing the main character finds some light in his darkness.

Static Codes is an engaging and truly unique film in the Sci-Fi genre. After a man's wife is abducted by aliens, he becomes obsessed with finding her. I thought the special effects were fantastic in this movie, for example, having a face come out of a screen is very difficult to pull off, so hats off to the special effects team. I think the cinematography was outstanding, especially during the night scenes, and I was super impressed by the drone shots in particular, clearly the work of an excellent drone operator. I liked the soundtrack too. This movie is raw and doesn't shy away from human struggles.

I was on the lookout for some indie magic, and bam, Static Codes hit me right in the feels. It ain't flawless, but let me tell you, it's a dope little sci-fi joint with mad heart. The story goes like this: Years post some traumatic event, this dude's claiming his wifey got snatched up by aliens, and now he's drowning in loneliness, ready to call it quits. This film brings a unique vibe I haven't seen anywhere else. The family dynamic between the daughter and Shane's old man character? Straight fire. "Static Codes" is the kinda flick I'd throw at my peeps when they're craving something fresh with a killer story and some real dramatic chops.

Strengths to this movie are: Cinematography, set design and actor performances - all top-notch. This movie raises the bar technically speaking for low-budget indie scifi movies. A disabled older man, alienated from his daughter, who lost his wife in a UFO abduction years ago hosts a daily stream/podcast. He is a notorious drinker who is haunted by what happened to alter his life. The strained relationship between father/daughter is the heart of the movie. Some cool UFO effects during the final confrontation/finale. The government forces add tension and suspense. Worth watching, it's head and shoulders above the competition!

This is a well made movie!

The acting is solid with a few exceptions. The pace, editing and directing are great. The movie has a nice twist or two and the writing is strong enough to allow the movie to have a little heart without seeming like a Lifetime movie of the week.

Couple things that stuck out: Shane Woodson carries the film from start to finish. He has a scene or two that don't completely work, but overall he is excellent. Mike Ferguson is also really good in his role. I kind of felt like Taryn Manning phoned it in a little, but although she is probably the biggest name in the movie she is actually only in it for five minutes or so.

This was a nice surprise that I stumbled across on Amazon Prime! Well worth the $2.99.