Plank Face

Plank Face is a compelling and chilling horror film released in 2016 by director Scott Schirmer. Renowned star Nathan Barrett plays the leading role, exhibiting his acting prowess remarkably. Supporting roles by Susan M. Martin and Brigid Macaulay help to create a rich tapestry of interesting characters that collectively contribute to a uniquely delegated narrative. Schirmer's exceptional guidance and the standout performances from the cast meld together to bring forth a movie that pushes the boundaries of traditional horror cinema.

The film opens with Nathan Barrett portraying a seemingly typical young man named Max. He's leading an ordinary life, seemingly unfazed by the normalcy of his existence. However, an ordinary weekend getaway in a remote woodland with his girlfriend quickly spirals into an unforgettable encounter with the unknown.

In the depths of the forest, Max and his girlfriend stumble upon an isolated family living an unorthodox lifestyle. However, this family isn't ordinary in any sense. This group of feral creatures embodies horror in the most primal sense, with their chilling attributes forming the crux of the narrative. Nathan Barrett's character, Max, is kidnapped, and is thrusted into the uncanny world of these beings.

What makes this plot extraordinarily gripping is the concept of dehumanization that it unabashedly explores. Max experiences a drastic transformation, a change so intense that he seems to lose touch with his own humanity. He undergoes a transition right before our eyes, led by the brutal forces of instinct and survival. Throughout the storyline, viewers are invited to scrutinize the blurred boundaries between the so-called normal societal constructs and the rugged rawness of unhinged nature.

What's detectable about Plank Face is the director’s unique treatment of the horror genre. The movie strays from typical horror tropes. Instead of relying on cheap thrills and gore, Plank Face delves into psychological and existential horror. It plays with the theme of primal instincts overtaking civilized behavior, invoking fear through its exploration of the degradation of one's humanity.

Equally gripping is the horrifying transformation undergone by Barrett’s character. His ability to express the mental and physical torment his character goes through is laudable. It’s the believable performance by Barrett that adds depth to this deranged, warped storyline. Furthermore, Susan M. Martin and Brigid Macaulay's contributions to the film cannot be understated. They skillfully portray the complex and eerie characters that effectively terrify and intrigue the audience.

While Plank Face doesn’t wholly shun the element of violence often associated with horror movies, it manages to avoid gratuitous gore. The film adopts an artistic approach to horror, using nuanced storytelling and subtle cues to instill fear and dread. The terror in the movie originates more from the threatening atmosphere and the distressing transformation of the protagonist, rather than just visible violence.

Cinematic elements play a significant role in this film. The hauntingly beautiful cinematography by Leya Taylor captures the eerie essence of the forest and its uncivilized inhabitants, infusing an overwhelming sense of dread through its visuals. The unsettling silence of the wilderness is broken only by the sinister soundtrack, composed by the talented Aaron Marshall.

In conclusion, Plank Face sits securely in a unique niche of the horror genre. It skilfully blends a human narrative with unsettling horror, making it an intriguing watch for fans of thought-provoking cinema. While traditional horror fans may find it out-of-the-box in terms of its treatment of the genre, those looking for a different, more psychological approach to horror will likely find it interesting and engaging.

Now, before you plunge into this chilling journey into the wilderness, be prepared, for Plank Face is not your conventional fear fest. It is a raw and unvarnished exploration of the depths of human darkness and the lengths one can go to survive. Watch it with an open mind, and Plank Face will surprise you with its creative approach and resonate long after you've finished watching.