Abstraction

Abstraction is a 2013 action-crime thriller directed by Prince Bagdasarian, who also penned the script. The film revolves around an audacious plan to steal from a major crime boss, and features a roller-coaster ride of kinetic cinematography and suspenseful twists which packs a punch from start to finish.

In this highly engaging cinematic piece, we follow Hunter Ives as Tommy, a well-meaning but troubled young man caught up in a life of petty crime. His path crosses that of an edgy and ambitious woman named Scarlet, played compellingly by Korrina Rico. Rico, having shown her chops in other roles, strongly delivers an enthralling performance, providing convincing chemistry with her on-screen partner, Ives.

Set amidst the backdrop of Southern California, Abstraction brings its characters to life with a raw representation of life on the fringes of society. Tommy and Scarlet both find themselves out of their depth, wrestling not only with their personal demons but also with an unyielding and increasingly dangerous situation they can't simply walk away from.

In addition to Ives and Rico, Abstraction features an exceptional performance from actor Ken Davitian. Davitian, known for his roles in Borat and The Artist, plays Arsen, a intimidating crime boss from whom Tommy and Scarlet plot to steal a valuable briefcase. While evidently a villainous character, Davitian injects a level of complexity into Arsen, allowing for a slightly sympathetic portrayal of a man who, despite his profound flaws, values loyalty and respect.

The film takes audiences on a journey that weaves through the realms of love, sacrifice, deception, and redemption. The narrative is brimming with a certain unpredictability which keeps viewers on edge right through to its denouement. It's the kind of movie that grabs hold and doesn't let go until the end credits roll.

The director, Prince Bagdasarian, treads a careful line between the darkness of the underworld and the hopefulness of personal relationships. The directorial work on Abstraction produces a vivid storytelling that engrosses the viewer entirely, making them root for Tommy and Scarlet, but also fear for them.

As befits an action-crime thriller, the film showcases a lot of stunt work and fast-paced sequences. The action scenes, expansive and ambitious, are punctuated by quieter moments that allow for character development. The director manages to balance the ratio of suspense and action, preventing the plot from becoming either too over-actioned or overtly complex.

Abstraction is successful in immersing the audience in a world that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. There’s an underlying exploration of the human condition, loyalty, survival instincts, and the nuances of personal relationships, making it not just an action-thriller but also a poignant exploration of human nature and the choices we make.

The cinematography and production values of Abstraction are noticeably high-grade, bringing a sort of glossy realism to the fore. Each shot is meticulously framed and lit to create atmospheric and moody scenes. This is complemented by a pulsating score that heightens the tension and suspense.

In summary, Abstraction is a well-executed, adrenalized action-crime thriller that keeps audiences engaged from beginning to end. Its intricate plot, high-octane action scenes, and enthralling performances from the cast offer a satisfying cinematic experience. One can only hope for further collaborations between Bagdasarian, Ives, Rico, and Davitian, as the chemistry they create on-screen is electric.

Abstraction from 2013 is a testament to the vitality and vibrancy that independent filmmaking can offer. With its über-cool aesthetic, signature action sequences, an intricate plotline, and compelling characters, it reveals the boundless potential that exists outside the mainstream cinema spectrum. It's definitely a movie that will appeal to fans of intricate crime dramas and action-thrillers.