DVD Corner

Abruptio Blu-ray Review

“Abruptio” is a fascinating cinematic experiment. 

Written and directed by Evan Marlowe, “Abruptio” is a dark horror-drama told entirely with human-sized puppets and often real environments, animals, cars, etc. The story revolves around a 35 year old loner named Les Hackel whose life is in the dumps. He has a soulless job, he’s an alcoholic, his girlfriend dumped him and he lives with his nagging mother. One day he discovers that an explosive device has been implanted in his neck. Due to this, he is forced into doing actions and missions involving murders and body disposal. He gets money and a nice house out of it, but that is meaningless when faced with the atrocities he is committing. As his life spirals out of control, he meets strange people (including others with implants), is interrogated by cops, and befriends a woman named Chelsea. And then things get really weird to say the least when he comes face to face with aliens, hybrids, discovers the masterminds behind the implants, and portals. Is the world coming to an end or is something else going on entirely?

At first glance “Abruptio” comes off as a deranged experimental horror film with unnerving puppets, wild plotting, and a whole lot of blood and violence. It feels like you are watching a cross between “Anomalisa,” “Invasion Of The Body Snatchers” and “Phantasm” all rolled into one. In the end though, the movie becomes something else entirely and flips the whole project on its head. Without touching on spoilers, the story ends on a rather surprising and profound note. It’s both clever and entirely validates all the chaos that came before it as a form of symbolism. In an age of reboots and remakes, Evan Marlowe should be applauded for this unusual, creative, and bold film. It might not be for everyone, but it’s the type of risky indie cinema we need more of.

“Abruptio” continues a rather stacked voice acting cast that includes James Marsters (of “Buffy The Vampire Slayer” fame), Sid Haig (in his final film role), Robert Englund, Hana Mae Lee, Jordan Peele and Christopher McDonald. Everyone nails their often challenging roles here. 

Video/Audio:

Presentation: Widescreen 1080p. How does it look? The visuals and puppetry are striking in hi-def.

Audio Track: 5.1 Surround. How does it sound? Viewers can expect a satisfactory 5.1 track.

Extras include 2 commentary tracks (one by puppeteer Danny Montooth and the other by writer/director Evan Marlowe and producer Kerry Marlowe) and a featurette “Abruptio: A New Kind Of Horror” with cast and crew interviews and story discussions.

December 12, 2024 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Abruptio Blu-ray Review, Horror-Comedy, James Marsters, Jordan Peele, Puppet Film, Sid Haig