O Despertar

I wasn't expecting too much going in but this movie delivered. They took a classic storyline and kept it simple with good writing. The characters are well formed with decent dialogue that was a little spotty at times but generally not too bad.

It's not a big budget blockbuster so if you go in expecting something great then you'll probably be disappointed. For such a small budget though it definitely hits above its weight.

Overall a fun indie thriller.

I found After an easy watch, but then again, I love interesting sci fi and horror, particularly if there's a good monster. The monster in this was ace, fast and roaring, but admittedly you don't get to see too much of it, in fact, there's only one really decent close up scene, but it is at least a good look. That's better than many other monster movies. The two leads were easy on the eye and acted well, and the story was different at least, if not ground breaking. Overall the movie was put together well, with a few decent effects, good editing and pace, and tension.

I freely admit, at first going in, I was more than a bit skeptical, but the key here is, you have to stick with it to really appreciate the concept, and the message.

Kudos to a well crafted story, even if it was produced with a very minimal budget. Sometimes, a good film doesn't need huge production extravaganza effects and big name stars to convey a concept that will stick with you, make you remember and perhaps think just a bit.

This is just such an example.

I won't even attempt to explain the story as it unfolds, as that would risk possible unintentional spoilers, so nary a clue here.

I'm not familiar with Jason Parish or Ryan Smith, but they deserve considerable credit for creating so much with so little, and really making it work.

Karolina Wydra's performance was maybe a bit overly expressive, but then again, she is something of a cartoon character come to life as it were, so perhaps that caricature is the perfect match for her part here. OK, that's just a clue . . .

Anyway, even if this is not your usual cup of tea, I'd say give it a watch, you're not likely to regret the time spent.

I think most people will have more issues with the pacing than the story. Of course that doesn't mean that those same people will not be able to see where this is going (no pun intended). But if you can get yourself into the mood of the movie, you might actually enjoy it. It's slow building and the atmosphere it builds (nice framing/photography) is really good.

Of course quite a lot is depending on the two main actors for obvious reasons. I think they're doing a pretty solid job. So while this is nothing to get over-excited about, it still can make for a nice little watch, if you like movies like that

If you are comfortable with low budget films, and care little about special effects, this is a pleasant and intriguing Sci-Fi diversion. The writing and acting are top notch and the plotting is intricate and carefully paced.

It's a bonus having Steven Strait (The Expanse) and Karolina Wyndra (Agent Of S. H. I. E. L. D.) in the same small film.