Under Surveillance

I've seen a lot of low budget thrillers and this one is the best. Fantastic writing and outstanding performances keep the movie constantly moving. The moments of tension are built really nicely but the thing that really took me by surprise was the comedy. Very intelligent humor that draws from what the audience expects, surprises them, and isn't cheap. It's always nice to find a movie that gives the viewers some credit and doesn't play to the lowest common denominator.

Often times when a writer or director casts themselves in a movie it does a great disservice to the picture. But that is not the case with Dave Campfield's performance in this movie. His character provides many of the great comedic moments. If he hadn't pulled it off the movie could have fallen pretty flat.

I really enjoyed this movie. Dave Campfield is a filmmaker to watch.

In Under Surveillance, Dave Campfield, in his first feature film, typifies the triple threat of writer, director, and actor (might we add, co-producer!). On a budget of $30,000, he transforms digital video into a slick, cinematic tour-de-force that rivals, if not surpasses, a 35mm concoction. He utilizes the camera's possibilities as a character in the cast, moving deftly and subliminally into and out of the mindset of mystery and psychological intrigue. He employs a writer's precision in pacing his screenplay with appropriate calibers of suspense and revelation, layering it with rich characterizations and subtext, brought to life by a compelling and well-assembled cast. Director of Photography Andrew Seltz maximizes the technical potential of digital video with lush and ominous color landscapes punctuated by Pixelvision-like black and white points of view of the surveillance cameras, offering us a peephole into the private lives of this repertory of players. Composer Evan Evans lends a haunting and enthralling score, reminiscent of early Bernard Herrmann, and contributes significantly to the overall tone of the piece. Under Surveillance is bound to elicit attention in the independent film arena; and as long as there are fine films to be seen and fine director/writers (such as Dave Campfield) to make them, it should secure a memorable place in that canon and beyond.

The DVD title is "Dark Chamber", and the cover features a barebacked woman with a pentagram carved into her back. Believe me the film is nowhere near as awesome as the cover is.

Felissa Rose (Sleepaway Camp) name on the cover might be a selling point, but unfortunately she nowhere near as dominant in the film as the placement of her name makes it appear. I'm always temped to grab newer horror movies when the have a cult favorites name on the box. I love seeing classic horror stars in new films!

Anyway, the movie is boring. There's no T & A to help offset the boredom. As for the acting, you'll find better acting in a grade school play. I mean these people make Charles Bronson look Oscar worthy.

I just saw this film at Terror Film Festival and it ROCKS! It brings suspense thriller to a whole new level and is so reminiscent of the great Hitchcock movies. Director Dave Campfield really shows his mastering of the film-making craft with turns and twists that leave you guessing until the very end. And the film also happens to contain one of the funniest moments in cinematic history. When you watch this film, keep an eye on what happens in the bedroom. It'll leave you in stitches! Also, the writing is superb. The script is just a roller-coaster ride of curve balls and red herrings, and you'll wonder if you heard that right and feel like you're IN the film. There are some really good films out there, but this one is a GREAT film.

Under Surveillance is a carefully crafted murder mystery tale by indie filmmaker David Campfield. He keeps things moody, atmospheric,and tense throughout the entire film. Part of the fun is guessing what will happen next.It pays homage to the films of Hitchcock, with a little Sliver thrown in for extra spice. The movie keeps you glued to your seat until the very end. It makes you think and reflect on human nature in general. What is it about snooping on other people that is so interesting? Everyone plays their lives out differently, and it's human nature to want to observe and learn from that. With a solid cast and very nice cinematography, I recommend Under Surveillance for a night of murder,mystery and intrigue. Keep up the good work Mr. Campfield, I look forward to seeing your future projects.