Antisocial Behavior

In the realm of independent cinema, the 2014 psychological horror film, 'Antisocial Behavior,' directed by Kenneth Guertin and starring Jackson Kuehn, Mary Elizabeth Boylan, and Chad Bishop, is a twisted, engrossing exploration of the human psyche's darker side. This horror thriller effectively toys with perceptions of reality and continually keeps viewers on their toes, delivering an eerie atmosphere punctuated by suspenseful moments and raw emotional intensity.

At the heart of 'Antisocial Behavior' is the riveting central performance of Jackson Kuehn. He portrays the character of Joe, a man who leads a seemingly uncomplicated life, illustrating the complexity of the human mind wherein turmoil can lie beneath the calm exterior. The story unfurls as a deep-dive into the recesses of his troubled psyche, with Kuehn succeeding in creating a character that the audience can empathize with, even as his dark secrets begin to surface. There's a continuously unsettling tension that seizes viewers as they are led to question Joe's truth and the bizarre occurrences that unfold around him.

Then there’s Mary Elizabeth Boylan, playing the role of Joe’s sister, Kathy. An exceptional actress, Boylan captures the audience’s attention with her performance. As an important part of Joe’s life, Kathy's relationship with her brother shapes the narrative's emotional backbone. Her raw performance intensifies the emotional tension of the movie, presenting the audience with further questions about the film's complex characters and their mysterious experiences.

Chad Bishop rounds out the cast, adding another layer to the complex character dynamics. His interaction with Kuehn's character manages to play an integral role in the narrative, adding intrigue and supplemental dimensions to the plot, whilst constricting the noose of suspense tighter around the viewers' engagement.

Director Kenneth Guertin takes full advantage of the genre's space to play with visual styling and storytelling in ‘Antisocial Behavior’. The film's impeccable cinematography provides a stark contrast between the dream-like elements of the plot and the grim reality the protagonist is trying to escape from. The startling visuals, coupled with the eerie score and skillful sound design, contribute to the overall chilling atmosphere, immersing the audience in the protagonist's increasingly distorted worldview.

Not content with typical horror clichés, ‘Antisocial Behavior’ leans heavily into the psychological torment of the protagonist, elevating conventional scares with deep psychological undercurrents. Guertin lays bare the complexities of madness and solitude, consistently blurring the line between reality and delusion. As viewers delve deeper into Joe's life and the darkness that surrounds it, the narrative spins an intricate web of mystery that captivates and horrifies in equal measure.

The script - intelligent, contemplative, and cloaked in ambiguity - might be one of the film's many strengths. Through sharp dialogue and deliberate pace, it manages to convey the protagonist's internal turmoil, creating a lingering dread that stays with the audience long after the credits have rolled.

While ‘Antisocial Behavior’ may not be for those seeking a conventional horror flick, it is perfect for viewers who appreciate a subsequent layer of psychological menace. With a tightly-knit storyline and engaging performances, it offers a cinematic experience that leaves a profound impression.

In conclusion, 'Antisocial Behavior' manages to stand out within the independent horror genre, thanks to its focus on psychological depth and impressive performances. Horror enthusiasts who appreciate a healthy dose of psychological thriller elements in their films, a touch of the grotesque, and the relentless examination of the human mind, will surely find Antisocial Behaviour to be an engaging and worthwhile watch.