After Dusk They Come

After Dusk They Come, directed by Nicholas Mastandrea, is a gripping horror thriller that was released in 2009. The film features an ensemble cast, which includes accomplished actors such as Jewel Staite, Justin Baldoni, Marc Bacher, and Nikki Griffin. The film skillfully blends elements of adventure and survival, while keeping audiences on the edge of their seats with elements of suspense and horror.

Jewel Staite, known for her roles in sci-fi series like Firefly, plays the character of Liz. Liz is on an expedition cruise to a tropical location with her husband, Justin Baldoni’s character, Peter. Justin Baldoni brings charisma and likability to the character of Peter, making the audience care about his character's fate. Marc Bacher plays the character of Andrea, a mystery man they meet on their journey, while Nikki Griffin plays Jenna, a woman who is as complex as she is alluring.

The plot of After Dusk They Come centers around these characters as they find themselves stranded on a deserted island after their boat mysteriously crashes. Unfamiliar with the land and surrounded by dense jungle, the group struggles to find their way back to civilization. However, as the days go by, they realize this isn’t an ordinary island. They gradually come to terms with the chilling fact that they aren’t alone and that the island is home to a dangerous and unknown entity.

As night falls, scary, unnerving noises resonate from the jungle, hinting at the horrific ordeal to come. Hence, the title of the movie 'After Dusk They Come' takes on a sinister meaning. The tension, uncertainty, and horror they experience during the night makes them question their survival and sanity. The question on everyone's mind is - what lurks in the shadows of this ominous island?

The movie portrays an interesting play on human psychology and their innate instinct of survival. It pokes at the monster within each of us that’s brought out when pushed to the edge. How far will the characters go to ensure their survival? What moral lines might they cross in the face of fear and imminent death? The film delves into this concept while maintaining a steady pace of heart-pounding terror and suspense.

Director Nicholas Mastandrea effectively combines pulse-quickening action sequences and harrowing horror elements with moments of character development. Even during the film's quieter moments, the threat of the unknown makes even the peaceful daytime sequences tense and nerve-wracking. As the characters move deeper into the jungle, uncovering the inescapable horror within it, the tension only heightens.

With an engaging plot and nuanced performances by the cast, After Dusk They Come is a thrilling exploration of survival, fear, and the endless limits of human resilience. The haunting and atmospheric setting only adds to the film’s eerie tone, making it a standout among horror thrillers. Every twist and turn in the story keeps the viewers guessing, and the escalating dread and tension are sure to keep them riveted until the end.

The cinematography of the film is also noteworthy. The camera work captures the stunning beauty and the overwhelming terror of the island in equal measures, creating a stark contrast and elevating the viewing experience. From the picturesque scenes of the sun-dappled beaches to the heart-stopping shots of the thick, shadowy jungle, the visuals are a treat.

The sound design further enhances the atmosphere, creating a soundscape that’s nuanced and layered, thereby amplifying the creepy and horrific elements of the film. The distinct sounds in the background - from the rustling of leaves, the eerie silence of the night, to the unintelligible whispers in the shadow - all contribute to the growing sense of dread and fear.

To conclude, After Dusk They Come offers a unique and engrossing take on survival horror, probing into the human psychology of fear. The movie succeeds in providing enough chills, thrills, and unexpected surprises to ensure the fans of this genre are not left disappointed. Packed with meticulous direction, commendable performances, unnerving sequences, and stunning visuals, this fear-inducing film from 2009 is sure to leave a lasting impression on its viewers.