Astro Loco

I watch a lot of B-movies, from old 50s classics to modern low budget sleaze. This one is pretty good considering the obviously micro-budget. I was surprised a few times, by the plot. It has a different feel to many other low budget movies, I felt like I was watching something I hadn't seen before.

Astro Loco knows it is low budget sci-fi and plays on it - with some cool, cheap effects, props and costumes. This made me giggle a few times.

Definitely a film to watch late at night with a few friends, and a few beers.

Astro Loco is fun indie sci-fi film that likes to revel in paranoia and the bizarre. The sci fi genre is one of my favorites and I'm always impressed at what indie films can do in a genre that seems, on the surface, to require a massive budget. But what Astro Loco and others like it do, is show that sometimes talented and hustling indie filmmakers can make a dollar really stretch far (and can have some really convincing fx shots in space), and that they often can bring a bit more creativity to more formulaic Hollywood-fare. If you can appreciate indie sci fi films like me, and you're interested in a modern take on a space crew slowly growing mad, then check out Astro Loco.

The title says everything you need to know...this sci-fi flick doesn't take itself too seriously and has a vibe that made me recall all of the B movies I loved as a kid, with SFX that are straight out of "Famous Monsters of Filmland". A well-done indie, with effects that are impressive for a micro-budget. I can only imagine what the director Aaron McJames could do with a budget that is more deserving of his talent.

What sets Astro Loco apart is that it is hard to pin down. It's a thoroughly independent lo-fi DIY sci-fi comedy shot on a shoe-string budget with shades of ALIEN, Dark Star, 2001: A Space Odyssey and Red Dwarf.

Despite it's B-movie trappings and constraints it ends up separating itself from other similar films due to its quirky, off-beat nature, blended together with surprisingly poignant and at times profound ideas.

The well written and funny characters at the core of the film and the "Rednecks in Space" vibe throughout (including a great soundtrack by Mojo Nixon) only add to Astro Loco's charm and uniqueness.

A very enjoyable Australian produced indie film that you should check out, especially if you're looking to make your own films.

A fun, charming indie film with the oddest, most awkward pacing and dialogues. Numerous confused frowns, delighted grins, and an occasional hearty chuckle guaranteed.