Chronicle

Chronicle is a 2012 movie directed by Josh Trank, which brings a fresh twist to the superhero and found footage genres. The film stars Dane DeHaan, Alex Russell, and Michael B. Jordan in lead roles, presenting a gripping tale of power, choices, adolescence, and the struggle of controlling newfound abilities.

The story of Chronicle revolves around three high school students: Andrew Detmer (Dane DeHaan), a teenager from Seattle who faces hardships at home, dealing with an alcoholic father and terminally ill mother; Matt Garetty (Alex Russell), Andrew's more popular cousin; and Steve Montgomery (Michael B. Jordan), the charismatic and sociable school superstar. In an unexpected twist of events, the lives of these three teenagers become entwined, leading to the discovery of a mysterious artifact.

While at a party, the trio stumbles across an underground chamber housing an extraordinary object. The encounter with this other-worldly entity bestows upon them uncanny telekinetic powers. This discovery adds an intriguing facet to their already complicated adolescent lives. Able to control objects - and ultimately, people - brings about a new and exciting dynamic, which the movie excellently portrays through the use of first-person perspective, much of it recorded by Andrew using his personal camcorder.

In the initial phase after their encounter with the strange phenomenon, the characters treat their supernatural abilities as a mere spectacle. They use their powers for mischievous pranks, much like any average teenager would be tempted to do. The boys enjoy their extraordinary abilities, recording their feats, and joking about the burgeoning changes. Their unanticipated abilities also function as a bond that draws them closer, and their camaraderie grows stronger.

However, as it so often happens with power, boundaries start to blur, and the extraordinary abilities bring a significant change to their lives. The focus of the movie then shifts from the light-hearted pranks to the boys learning about the extent of their powers. This is especially highlighted in the character Andrew, who is portrayed by Dane DeHaan in an impressively riveting performance. DeHaan wonderfully depicts Andrew's internal struggle between his desires, his fears, and his newfound power - providing a depth to his character's transformation that is both powerful and harrowing.

What sets Chronicle apart is its refreshing take on the superhero genre. This isn't another grand tale of morally upright individuals saving the world. Instead, it's a profound exploration of how regular individuals would react to supreme power, how they handle it, and more importantly, how it changes them.

The film imparts a certain realism to the superhuman theme. These aren't born heroes or villains but average teenagers, with all their usual problems, friendships, and rivalries, who happen to stumble upon an inexplicable power. The movie is also significant for its found footage style, with most of the movie shot on a handheld camera, a technique that enhances the film's raw, gritty, and visceral feel.

Amid the impressive visuals and impactful performances, Chronicle maintains a thematic depth that raises important questions on power, morality, and the human condition. It adds an emotional punch to the narrative that centers around the layers of complexity that come with power and control. The film delves deep into the psychological toll the newfound forces take on the characters, particularly on Andrew, and traces their journey through fear, thrill, and discovery.

Overall, Chronicle is a forward-thinking and genre-blending film that balances superb performances from its cast with a unique narrative to create a compelling cinematic experience. This film undoubtedly sets a bench-mark in the superhero film world, shattering preconceived notions about the genre with its novel storytelling style and profound exploration of human nature when bestowed with extraordinary powers. A must-watch film for both superhero and found footage genre enthusiasts, and anyone interested in narrative experimentation. The movie offers a riveting, thought-provoking, and original take on superhuman abilities.