Impulse

Impulse is a 1984 American thriller film that seamlessly blends elements of suspense, drama, and horror, directed by esteemed filmmaker Graham Baker. The film’s script, penned by Don Carlos Dunaway and Nicholas Kazan, delivers a riveting narrative that keeps viewers enthralled from beginning to end. The movie features eminent actors Tim Matheson, Meg Tilly, and Hume Cronyn.

Impulse tells the story of Stuart, played by Tim Matheson, leading the audience on a chills-inducing journey. Matheson's brilliant portrayal of the protagonist, a successful real estate businessman with a dark side hidden beneath his charming facade, is the heart of the narrative. Stuart sustains a seemingly normal lifestyle in downtown Los Angeles; however, beneath the pristine surface simmers a boiling pot of sinister motives and secrets.

Stuart is not merely a business tycoon – in the cloak of the night, he transforms into a conning serial killer who sweeps through the city, leaving a trail of unsuspecting victims. His deceptive affability lures individuals into trusting him before their fate inevitably meets a tragic end. The darkness of his occupation is mimicked subtly in the overall cinematography, which amplifies the sensation of intense suspense and empathic horror that permeates the film.

Actress Meg Tilly stars as Jennifer, a nurse who becomes romantically involved with Stuart yet oblivious to his double life. Tilly’s portrayal of Jennifer is impeccably endearing, an innocent soul completely unaware of the dangerous dynamics lurking behind her love interest. The interplay of romance and chilling suspense creates a captivating contrast throughout the movie, hooking the audience onto every moment as they anticipate the unveiling of Stuart's true character.

Hume Cronyn is brilliant in role as the tenacious, insightful Dr. Carr, a therapist who treats Stuart. He adds weight to the plot with his ability to sense the turmoil beneath Stuart's smooth demeanor. However, the audience is left on edge, wondering if he will be able to pierce the veil and expose the disturbing reality or fall prey to Stuart's cunning manipulation.

The love story at the heart of Impulse is beautiful yet tragic, spiked with moments of unexpected suspense. Stuart’s deception escalates tension, both within the character dynamics and for the audience. The viewers are constantly left wondering if and when Jennifer will uncover the horrifying truth about her lover.

The film is nailed in its atmospheric elements, creating an ambiance of anxiety and anticipation that resonates throughout the narrative. The cinematography crafts the perfect visual embodiment of the chilling narrative with its dark undertones; the shots of shimmering city lights are a stark contrast against the brooding shadows that symbolize Stuart's grim secret life.

The star-studded cast delivers powerful performances that capture the essence of the plot and characters, propelling moments of horror and despair to extraordinary heights. The directorial genius of Graham Baker shines forth as he masterfully engages viewers with the twisting plot, ultimately leaving them at the edge of their seats.

The narrative of Impulse thrives on emotional paradoxes, juxtaposing love against fear, trust against betrayal, and normalcy against grotesquery. The film based on Don Carlos Dunaway and Nicholas Kazan's script is impressive in its character development and storyline, featuring well-crafted plot twists.

Though it is centred around a quite stark subject matter, Impulse manages to explore deeper universal themes such as duplicity, trust, morality, and the intrinsic human capability for good and evil. Amid the heart-rate inducing thrill that it brings, the movie induces introspective thoughts in viewers, envelopes in an undercurrent of meaningful discourse that elevates the film to a thought-provoking phenomenon.

In essence, Impulse is a fast-paced and nerve-wracking thriller that successfully manipulates tension, evokes fear, and elicits a sense of dread. This movie stands as a testament to how film can seamlessly blend frightening, romantic, and visceral emotions to craft a cinematic experience that leaves an indelible mark on its viewers’ psyche. For those who appreciate thrillers with a twinge of horror and romance, Impulse is a must-watch.