1

The 2013 movie 1, also known as "+1" or "Plus One", is a unique fusion of genres, incorporating elements of sci-fi, drama, thriller, and a touch of horror. It's an inventive combination that keeps viewers on their toes as they watch the story unfold. The film, directed by Dennis Iliadis, stars Rhys Wakefield, Logan Miller, and Ashley Hinshaw in lead roles.

The film opens with David (Rhys Wakefield), a college soldier, and his love interest, Jill (Ashley Hinshaw), having a disagreement which segues into a breakup. In an effort to rekindle the flame, David decides to follow Jill to a massive house party, along with his funny but slightly annoying friend, Teddy (Logan Miller). The party, expected to be just an ordinary college bash, turns out to be an extraordinary situation that's far out of their comfort zone and indeed, out of this world. Here is where the mixture of genres starts to introduce itself in hinting fashion.

At the party, happening mostly at night, director Iliadis introduces us to an ensemble of typical college partygoers. There are alcohol-filled red cups, wild interaction, different personalities, extravagant lighting, and booming music, creating an atmosphere of youthful energy and raw emotions. However, the ambiance quickly morphs into something strange and disconcerting when a peculiar event happens: An unexplainable phenomenon occurs that replicates every person attending this party.

At first, the party-goers are oblivious to this surreal event. However, as time progresses, they realize that there are exact duplicates of themselves wandering around, leaving everyone in a state of deep confusion and boundless hysteria. Teddy, David, and Jill, just like the others, encounter their duplicated selves too. While some characters see it as an opportunity to rectify their regrets, others are terrified and try to confront and eliminate their doubles, leading to both humorous and horrifying consequences.

The movie is intriguing because it takes a simple concept – a college house party, and turns it into something exciting, bizarre, and terrifying. It does not stick to conventional narrative structures but rather dares to play within an outlandish concept in an oddly realistic setting.

Rhys Wakefield, Logan Miller, and Ashley Hinshaw bring in a strong performance that convincingly illustrates their characters' confusion, bewilderment, fear, and engagement in this strange and frightening phenomenon. Wakefield excellently explores the depths of David's despair, desperation, and recklessness. Miller's character, Teddy provides comic relief, yet also delivers crucial emotional beats that are laced with darker motivations. Hinshaw's portrayal of Jill seamlessly transitions between the different shades of her character, making her performance quite memorable.

Filmed in a close to real-time narrative, the film implores the use of long takes, which gives the viewers a personal and immersive feel into the bizarre situation. The cinematography beautifully captures the chaos in a way that is both complex and fluid. One can't help but get captured by the progression of events and the layers that peel off with each passing second.

What marks this movie apart from others of its kind is the seamless blend of genres that keeps the audience guessing. The plot constantly swings between thriller, drama, horror, and sci-fi components, keeping viewers enthralled and on the edge of their seats.

Overall, "1" is a thrilling ride that ramps up the chaos, mystery, and tension with every passing moment. It explores the fear of doppelgangers and the concept of facing one's own flaws in a very unconventional and engaging way, taking the audience on an unforgettable ride filled with surprises, suspense, spectacle and a lingering sense of satisfaction at the journey's end.

So, if you are a fan of genre-bending films that have strong performances and offer an innovative plot, then "1" should be on your must-watch list. Embark on this thrill ride that will leave you questioning your grip on reality and how well you know yourself.