Automata

I loved the premise and decided to give it a chance. Glad I did! It's a beautifully shot film and a welcome addition to the horror genre.

I loved it - for me if the world at large gives a horror movie a rating ox X ... I just add 2 to it. And this movie is an 7 / 10 for me and any other die hard horror lover.

Watch it - its amazing what independent movie makers are capable of.

I've been following and supporting Hex Media and their output since I kickstarted their earlier production of The Black Gloves. Ever since, I've been helping to crowdfund all their subsequent productions sight unseen and picked up their entire back catalogue.

Automata (aka The Devil's Machine), like Lawrie Brewster's other works, draws a great deal of inspiration from classical Gothic aesthetics, and the British tradition of Hammer Films. The vivid colours in this film and the aristocratic setting might also invoke obscure giallo deja vu for some as well.

Those familiar with the other films from Hex will notice recurring actors, but showcasing performances in a different style than previous outings. As less well-known actors, they do a great job disproving the notion that indie horror actors are less talented, as this cast turns in fantastic performances all round.

The cinematography and production scale are great highlights of this film. The scope of the narrative and production value are very impressive, especially when considering the indie roots of the crew. You'll be reminded of Barry Lyndon with period-appropriate garb and aesthetics, all captured beautifully and cinematically.

I'd have no hesitations supporting whatever Lawrie Brewster turns his hand to next and encourage any horror fans who are looking for a taste of classical horror (but still with a modern edge) to check this one out.

If you're looking for more modern horror and/or millions of dollars in CGI effects and actor's pay, perhaps this is not for you.

If you like indie-horror and Hammer / United International Films (like Roger Corman's Poe films), then by all means dig in to this film. Beautifully shot and riveting.

This film embodies what horror should be. Not gore factor, but pushing the edges of sanity. Disturbing without being completely broken. Horror that happens in the realm of the "possible" is what makes something that will stick in your brain and eat at your psyche for weeks to come. Yes this is occult in nature and therefore outside the actual realm of possible as a whole, but many elements are very much a dissection of human nature and question what happens if we toe that line of decency and morality. What happens when something gets in your head and causes an obsession. How far will a person go in the right circumstances. This movie will not scare you, it will not horrify you, but it will get in your head in an uncomfortable way. That is the type of horror this is. The plot may not be amazingly innovative, but it twists on itself enough to keep you engaged and slowly drags you into the hell of the characters. For an indie film, the production quality and acting are very good for the most part. Recognize that because this came out of a Kickstarter, the weakest showing is likely the person who paid for a guest appearance, and it's dismissively brief. Overall it's brilliant to see what can be done on a small budget, and the main characters have a clear talent. It's a UK production and has that feel which is not to some folks liking so be aware of that. For fans of the sub genre and style, this is a must see.