Effects

Effects is a 1979 thriller and horror movie that intertwines elements of suspension, mystery, and creeping dread to create a unique cinematic experience. Bankrolled and starred in by some of the key members of late-1970s Pittsburgh filmmaking community, the film also marked an early entry in the “backwoods horror” genre, well-illustrating the unsettling dread of a primarily isolated setting.

Directed by Dusty Nelson and produced by John Harrison, Effects is a metacinematic exploration into the blurred lines between illusion and reality. The story brings forth a clutch of ambitious young filmmakers working on a low-budget horror movie in the eerie backwoods of Western Pennsylvania. The film-within-a-film premise provides a backdrop for exploring the ramifications of blurring the line between reel and real life.

Joseph Pilato headlines the cast, playing Dominic, an amiable, hard-drinking sound-effects man. Dominic’s character is amiable but harrowed, mirroring Pilato's subsequent notable role as Captain Rhodes in the cult classic 'Day of the Dead.' Simultaneously, Susan Chapek delivers an effortless performance as Celeste, the pragmatic film editor. Her struggle to discern fiction from reality gives the audience a striking portrayal of subterfuge and exposure. John Harrison, in addition to being one of the producers, takes on the role of Lacey Bickel, the eccentric and driven director, whose unexpected actions enlightens the plot with an intriguing twist.

The narrative unravels as the crew works on their film, but the genuine horror lies behind the camera. It's assumed that the crew is in on the director’s vérité scheme, but a series of sinister mishaps and the increasing number of accidents propose that actual lives may be at risk. Trouble brews when it becomes evident that their ambitious director has developed an appetite for true horror, creating authentic scares, carnage, and fear on set.

Nelson's direction and George Romero's stylistic influence are evident through the film's masterful suspense build-up. Despite being a low-budget production, Effects stands out for its intense realism, particularly when it portrays the behind-the-scenes workings of a film production. It follows suit of Romero's impactful films created around the time, encapsulating the grim aesthetics and the socially conscious horror. Interestingly, the film was lost shortly after its completion but was fortunately rediscovered and restored in the mid-2000s.

The cinematography of Effects is what one might expect from a crew deeply steeped in horror culture. The camera work is solid, offering well-framed and arrestingly atmospheric shots of rural Pennsylvania, complementing the sense of suspense and terror beautifully. The grainy, almost documentary-like footage lends a grizzled realism to the film, adding a layer of grit and authenticity that enriches the viewing experience. The special effects are raw and impactful, making the film a notable entry in the realm of practical effects horror.

Effect's avant-garde essence seeps through its music as well. Harrison, also known for his ardent compositions, lends the film a eerie and disquieting score. The blend of synth and naturalistic sounds form a backdrop of tension and unpredictability, reminiscent of his later works in classics like 'Creepshow'.

Effects is more than just a horror film. It's a chilling exploration of what happens when the art of filmmaking turns lethal, and the veil between fiction and reality is pierced. Known for being a quintessential 'lost' film of its era and genre, Effects delivers an experimental horror piece that leaves viewers contemplating the blurred boundaries between art and life even long after the credits have rolled. It is a commendable effort by Nelson, Harrison, and the robust cast, making this a hidden gem within the annals of late 70s horror cinema.