A Place in Hell

In the heart of the independent film genre lies an alluring thriller that tests the human spirit, pushes the boundaries of fear and questions the notion of morality. The 2015 American movie A Place in Hell, directed by David Boorboor, does all that and more in a terrifyingly captivating style. Starring actors such as Lewis Smith, Noree Victoria, Brian Anthony Wilson, and more, this film intriguingly examines the relationships between humanity and the concepts of sin and redemption.

The main plot of the film revolves around the lives of five students of a film school class seeking to forge their own path in the industry. Equipped with only their raw, novice knowledge of the art, and led by their ambitious professor, Nick (Lewis Smith), they embark on a journey to create an enthralling horror film. They aim to explore and reflect on the possibilities of the genre, pushing themselves to the limits in order to come up with something brilliantly frightening.

Their travels lead them to an eerie, isolated farm in the chillingly cold rural town of Hobb's Grove. This seemingly innocent farm has its own stories - stories that are filled with mystery, suspense, and nightmares. The aged barn is purportedly haunted, a perfect setting for the aspiring directors' film. Yet, the terror they face there turns out to be infinitely more horrific than the scripted horror they’ve planned.

While the five students prepare to make their film, another storyline is concurrently developed. We are introduced to Detective John McInnis (Brian Anthony Wilson), a worn-out and desensitized homicide veteran. Although weathered by the gruesome nature of his job, he continues to dutifully serve in the hope of attaining salvation for his past sins. The film shows us his struggles with an infamous case, tagged "The Internet Snuff Films", which takes him on an uncommon journey of sin, penalty, and moral questioning.

These two plotlines collide head on with the unexpected appearance of a deranged serial killer, who poses as a greater threat than anyone could have anticipated. The deserted farm becomes the stage for a horrifying game of life and death as the students, bound by fear, are forced to face not only their deepest fears but also the very concept of evil in its rawest form. The film skilfully weaves these two narratives together, creating a chilling blend of suspense, terror and thought-provoking discussions.

The film goes beyond just scares and thrills. It delves deeper into philosophical and ethical queries that challenge the viewer to reconsider their own concepts of morality, sin, and redemption. Director David Boorboor brilliantly explores these themes, turning this horror movie into a thoughtful exploration of darker human elements.

The performances in A Place in Hell is commendable, especially from Lewis Smith and Brian Anthony Wilson. Smith, as the determined, yet conflicted professor, perfectly captures the trials of a mentor wanting to guide his students past their fears, whilst simultaneously grappling with the growing horrors surrounding them. On the other end, Wilson’s portrayal of the weary detective in search of redemption, showcases a nuanced mixture of determination, frustration and longing.

Moreover, Noree Victoria turns in a strong performance as one of the five students. Her combination of vulnerability and tenacity effectively portray an ambitious, yet naive, film student who is forced into an unforeseen situation where the line between reel life and real life blurs.

Visually, the movie is outstanding with an eerie and petrifying atmosphere that lends to the horror theme. Coupled with a meticulously composed soundscape, every scene succeeds in setting up the suspense and triggering anticipatory fear, eventually making the revelations even more hard-hitting.

A Place in Hell, while being rooted in the genre of horror, provides a gripping narrative that goes far beyond the stereotypical thrills and chills to pose challenging ethical and moral queries. With its unpredictable plot, commendable performances, and haunting atmosphere, it's an engaging watch for those who enjoy deep, thought-provoking suspense.