The Oldest View

This series captures the liminal suspenseful uneasy feeling even better than Kane's Backrooms series. You can clearly see that he has put detail into every single shot. It's amazing how he created this with CGI. It's hard to spot the difference between the animation and real life. I also like how this is based on a real story. A lot of effort was put in the backstory of the dying mall and especially in the "Giants" and the botanist behind it.

Kane again showed what he is capable of and I am really looking forward to the upcoming Backrooms movie from him with A24 studios. And of course other future projects.

I love that this creator is making videos with stand alone stories. It was nice to watch a short movie based on one liminal location and one looming presence. The creature is a constant looming threat even when it is not on screen. You are truly being pressed with tension and atmosphere. The liminal space is masterly constructed. Using a mall is extremly smart because of the huge empyy space that we get to explore with the main character. We start of feeling lonely and isolated but when the monster is introduced it becomes a game of cat and mouse that creates a completely new vibe. It's a bit of a slower video but so worth it. I was locked in the whole video and would truly recommend it to anyone. This vhs format is also excellent for this because it truly feels like you are in this situation and it's terrifying.

This "movie" was reviewed by slashfilm as the scariest film of 2023. Dude actually said he had to pause it and walk around because it was so scary. Let me tell you, as a person who devours horror like mosquitoes devour people in Florida, this is NOT scary. At all. It's badly done found footage that doesn't make any sense, doesn't answer any questions, and doesn't really offer anything other than "well that's different". This is a YouTube movie (in 3 parts) about a vlogger trespassing on private property when he finds a hole under a tree that leads to stairs. He follows the stairs. He finds what appears to be an abandoned mall. Things happen. That's about it. I'm claustrophobic and not even that aspect of this made me uncomfortable, it's just so ridiculously far fetched I don't even know where to begin. I won't say there's not a story here...maybe there is, but realistically this isn't a movie so much as it is an art film showing off a dead mall. As a found footage junkie I've seen so many FF movies, some decent, some terrible, some I wished I'd never seen (looking straight at you Megan Is Missing and Leaving D. C.). The biggest pitfall in FF is WHY ARE THEY STILL FILMING. In most movies it's because the camera provides light to see in the dark whatevers (typically woods) but unfortunately this movie provides no motive once it actually starts GETTING somewhere for him to continue holding his phone in such a perfect way that we can see everything. There's literally no reason for him to be filming with his phone while he's running through corridors and such, but he is! It's lazy cinematography and it annoys me that the director/writer/whoever clearly paid to get attention and favorable reviews put up. This was an hour of my life I kinda want back, because the only thing scary about this movie is how boring it was.

This movie/episode is one of the best horrors I've seen. It had great lore behind it. Outstanding that Kane Animated this himself and perfectly replicated it. It made me feel as if I were in a nightmare. I personal have a theory that the spirit of the man that this statue is based off of is possessing the rolling giant and you can see the spirit poking his head out from different corners. The Dallas mall rolling giant project actual feels like something I learned in art class before for some reason. I love what horror comes with the forgotten or the past. Good job Kane you never disappoint can't what for the backrooms movie.

The Oldest View is a true cinematic gem, rich in detail and atmosphere, capturing attention from the very first scenes. With a mysterious, immersive ambiance, this film transports viewers into a world where every element, every shot, feels meticulously crafted. What makes this piece particularly special is the depth of its storyline; to fully understand it, you often have to dig into hidden details or do a bit of research. This need to look beyond the surface adds an almost enigmatic quality, delighting viewers who enjoy a challenge.

The suspense is masterfully handled, with each scene maintaining an intense, intriguing rhythm. The director plays skillfully with expectations, drawing the audience deeper into the plot. The cinematography is equally remarkable-every frame and camera angle pulls you further into the story, creating an experience that feels both grand and personal. The visuals aren't just beautiful; they become a character in their own right, adding depth and texture to the narrative.

However, even such a powerful work has a few drawbacks. For instance, some viewers might find the pacing a bit slow at times, especially due to the contemplative pauses that, while enhancing the mood, may occasionally feel excessive. Additionally, some of the dialogue lacks fluidity, which might throw off those who prefer a more straightforward narrative. The plot itself, though captivating, is also rather complex, and less attentive viewers might feel lost in the intricacies.

The Oldest View is a film brimming with secrets and mysteries that reveal themselves to those willing to dive deep. It's absolutely worth watching, both for the masterfully crafted suspense and the incredible cinematography.