Lifechanger

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

I see a lot of negative reviews about this film, however I found it decent enough.

The premise was good, the execution not brilliant, but the film leads you down the path of appreciating what you have and to not take anything for granted. Until you realise this film is supposed to hit you emotionally and isn't packed with action, you wont fully appreciate it.

I'm going to start with the positive: GREAT production values, WELL shot, WELL, lit, FANTASTIC special effect, acting performances were (meh...) hit and miss, but forgivable in most cases...

BUT THE SCRIPT -- Oh geez...not that great. As a matter of fact...kinda cringe-worthy. And the screenplay is the backbone of any film. If you don't have a solid script...DON'T MAKE THE MOVIE...(just yet, at least.)

The script felt uni-dimensional, not much substance other than the primary storyline following the shapeshifting body-jumper. Mostly dull during the entirety of Act 2. The movie would have been more interesting if there was a secondary plot line (maybe somebody following the shapeshifter who notices something strange going on?) This is what I get paid to do, so take it as free advice.

Even at the After Dark Film Festival premiere during the Q & A--I don't know if anybody else caught this--but the director ADMITS the screenplay was about a draft away from being perfect...like...HUH?! ARE YOU SERIOUS MAN?! Even if you think that (which I concur, you are correct...maybe even understating it a bit,) you DO NOT ever...under ANY circumstance ADMIT that to a sold-out theatre packed with people who paid to see your latest feature!

This is Canadian Film...unfortunately. Seems like so much potential is squandered because egos get in the way of good storytelling. (And that's not just an "opinion", that's empirical truth, otherwise there wouldn't be an acting/directing/producing talent brain drain heading to L.A. to make their dreams come true.) We cannot compete with Hollywood because it's like junior hockey competing with Pro NHLers. Story is everything. DO NOT compromise. Sorry Justin...I REALLY wanted to like your film but it sucks.

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.

I enjoyed watching this flick. I did feel confused at some of the plot lines but that on the side this was a fun watch. The premise was simple but effective. I think it could of been produced a little differently to really ramp the motives but still it didn't deter too much from what was a creepy movie.