Ashes

After the incredible success of psychological thrillers in recent years, the 2018 film "Ashes" steps into the spotlight, bringing an enthralling horror-filled ride to audiences. With an impeccable blend of suspense, mystery and quintessential horror nuances, this film is evidence of a novel cinematic experience in the genre. "Ashes," directed by Barry Jay, offers a spine-chilling narrative that resonates within contemporary horror cinema's landscape.

Heading a strong ensemble cast are Melinda DeKay, Damien Diaz, and Jeremy Isaiah Earl. Melinda DeKay's performance is a tour de force as she takes on the role of a distressed matriarch with conviction and raw emotion. Meanwhile, Damien Diaz and Jeremy Isaiah Earl not only complement DeKay's performance perfectly but showcase their acting prowess as they dive deep into their complex characters, contributing to the terrifying mosaic that Jay has passionately crafted.

The movie unfolds with the passing away of Aunt Marion, leaving her grieving family to handle her earthly possessions and ties. Intrigue ensues when the family comes across Marion's human remains in a peculiar urn, which is believed to have ominous powers. With a strange attachment found in Marion's will, the already tense situation is cranked up several notches when inexplicable occurrences begin to transpire, increasing in frequency and intensity.

With a plot that leaves no room for distractions, the increasing animosity and spookiness create an atmosphere of anxiety and panic. Peppered with eerie sound effects, a grim tone, and hair-raising revelations, "Ashes" is a film that effectively utilizes horror elements to get your pulse racing.

DeKay, as Aunt Marion's bereaved sister, delivers a gripping performance. Embodying the quintessential family elder, she beautifully portrays the full spectrum of emotions ranging from affection, fear, grief, and fortified strength. Diaz and Earl, as closer family members to the deceased, adeptly showcase their acting mettle by delving into their characters' psychological turmoil, presenting a captivating display of the human response to uncertainty and dread.

Emphasizing the horrifying aspects of "Ashes" is the intelligent cinematography that crafts a haunting ambiance throughout the film. Clever use of shadow and light amplify the effectiveness of this spine-tingling story, emphasizing the discomfort resulting from both the family's internal dynamics and encounters with the 'otherworldly'.

Director Barry Jay narrates this family’s horrifying ordeal with grace and grit, managing to strike a perfect balance between scare tactics and a believable plot. Jay delicately weaves familial relationships, grief, and the supernatural into a single seamless genre-defying journey where every character becomes critical. Invoking both sympathy and fear for the film's characters, Jay proves he is a masterful storyteller who understands the genre’s nuances.

"Ashes" shines in its unique ability to hook the audience through its skillful storytelling and unsettling atmosphere rather than cheap scare tricks. With every pivot and plot progression, it leads the audience further into the labyrinth of mystery and darkness that envelops it. The film constructs an authentic haunting landscape, filled with complex familial relationships, underlying mistrust, and a looming supernatural presence.

In addition, the movie handles the theme of death in a way that brings needed suspense to the narrative. It cleverly explores the mystery of what happens after death and intelligently weaves this question into the storyline, leaving audiences on edge.

"The fear of the unknown has the power to petrify," goes a line in the film, capturing beautifully the essence of "Ashes." It bravely examines the existential dread and the fear of the unknown, confronting these natural human fears in a unique, terrifying, and engaging manner.

In conclusion, "Ashes" is a riveting horror film that does not shy away from its genre but takes it head-on with flair, diversifying its narrative with themes of family, death, sacrifice, and fear. The performances of the lead characters, the intricately woven storyline, the creepy ambiance, and the thought-provoking themes make "Ashes" a horror film that relentlessly haunts the viewer and leaves a long-lasting impression. For anyone fascinated with explorations of the supernatural or seeking a thrilling cinematic experience, "Ashes" is a must-watch.