Freelance

Freelance is a well-made film with a clever concept (though not entirely original), but its execution falls short.

There seems to be a mindset in Australia that storytelling doesn't require much thought or revision, as if most films go into production after only a few drafts. Freelance is a prime example of an underdeveloped script.

Visually, the film is well-shot, and the acting is passable. It held my attention, so it deserves credit for that. However, there isn't much to truly enjoy about this film. The lead actor's performance is average-not bad, but not memorable or special either. It often feels phoned in. There's a particular moment in the film where any real person would be hysterical, yet she barely reacts to a horrific situation. It's one of those frustrating moments where the audience finds themselves yelling at the screen: Why aren't you reacting?!

Supporting actor Jordan-Fraser Trumble once again delivers a below-average performance. Some moments border on bad acting and a lack of believability. Just as in The Cost, I didn't find the performance convincing.

The protagonist herself is confusingly written. She has a shaved haircut, calls everyone dude, yet is depicted as heterosexual. This isn't a comment on sexuality, but rather on the inconsistency of the character's personality-it feels like the film is pulling in two different directions.

The dialogue is simple but effective, and the story attempts to be clever with its twists and turns. However, some of these twists are predictable, while others feel underdeveloped or poorly executed. The first half of the film struggles with its identity-is it about an editor ashamed of her past work? Is she haunted by the project she's currently editing? Why does she remain so two-dimensional? The film also throws in random nude scenes that seem to serve no narrative purpose (perhaps more for the director's personal reasons). The character's choices lack strength and conviction.

Adding to the film's lack of credibility, the police characters behave in ways that feel completely unrealistic, as does the landlord. Neither portrayal feels remotely plausible.

There are also multiple plot holes. For instance, the main character is shown to be struggling for money, unable to pay rent, yet when her mother calls, she suddenly has money to send her instantly-only to be struggling again soon after and even considering doing porn. The inconsistency makes the story feel disjointed and confusing.

The film also suffers from weak sound design. Stronger sound effects could have heightened the tension in key moments. Additionally, the film lacks an impactful score-music could have significantly improved the atmosphere.

Ultimately, Freelance doesn't work as an acting showcase, nor does it deliver the scares or edge-of-your-seat moments expected in a psychological thriller or horror film. The protagonist is difficult to connect with, making illogical decisions like a child. The story is weak, failing to evoke any emotion, humor, terror, or suspense-elements that are crucial to this genre.

Freelance, is a masterfully crafted psychological thriller that keeps you on edge throughout. Nicole Pastor delivers an outstanding performance as the lead, capturing both vulnerability and strength with finesse. The film expertly builds tension as it explores themes of isolation, trust, and survival. Balazs' direction and the tight screenplay keep you hooked as the layers of the plot unfold in a captivating manor. The editing is phenomenal and perfectly articulate the themes of the film. With sharp character development and a captivating atmosphere, Freelance is a must-see for thriller fans. A gripping, well-executed film that delivers both thrills and depth.

Freelance is an expertly crafted thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. From the first scene to the credits, the film maintains a level of suspense that is hard to come by these days. What truly stands out, though, is Nicole Pastor's amazing performance as Katie. She embodies her character with such depth and intensity that you feel completely immersed in her world. Every choice she makes feels authentic, and her journey is both captivating and emotionally charged. The film as a whole reminded me of a Steven Soderbergh movie. The combination of high-stakes action, psychological tension, and exceptional performances makes Freelance a must-watch. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a well-executed thriller.

John Balazs' Freelance is a remarkable achievement in independent filmmaking-a bold, stylish, and deeply atmospheric psychological thriller. As someone who understands the challenges of indie productions, it's inspiring to see a film so meticulously crafted, with no evidence of the usual budget-driven compromises in production or performance. Instead, Freelance feels highly polished, confidently standing among psychological thrillers while carving out its own unique identity.

At the centre of this film is Nicole Pastor's unforgettable performance as Katie, a video editor whose descent into obsession and paranoia is as mesmerising as it is chilling. Nicole brings incredible nuance to the role, layering her performance with subtle touches that mirror Katie's unraveling state of mind. Even small details-like Katie's haircut, symbolising her fractured psyche-feel deliberate and poignant. What impressed me most was Nicole's ability to navigate Katie's slow descent, sprinkling in moments of vulnerability and obsession before plunging the audience into the chaos of her madness.

The film is also a testament to the creative vision of John Balazs. The cinematography, lighting, and sound design create a palpable tension throughout, pulling the audience deeper into Katie's fractured world. Influences like David Fincher's precision and the vivid stylisation of The Neon Demon can be felt, yet Freelance maintains its own voice, refusing to feel derivative.

Independent filmmaking is often a delicate balancing act, with limited resources making it difficult to achieve the full scope of a director's vision. But with Freelance, John Balazs and his team have crafted a film that feels rich, cohesive, and uncompromising in its ambition. Huge congratulations to Nicole, John, and the entire cast and crew for creating something truly special. It's a reminder of what's possible when passion and talent converge-and I, for one, can't wait to see what comes next from this team.

As above, it's clearly a small indie film but the character's position as a young freelance trying to make it is highly relatable.

Believable acting, solid sets and effects, and good casting. I liked the little bits of mystery and the reveals were actually satisfying.

On one hand I liked how a fair amount of time was given to expanding on the main character's life and interactions with people such as with at the coffee shop. Overall I'd recommend it as an example of what a small budget indie film can be. Although I personally find things to drag just a little here and there and believe several shots could have been tightened up / dream sequences being redundant.

7/10 refreshing, indie thriller.