Scalene

Scalene is an American psychological thriller released in 2011, written and directed by Zack Parker. The movie boasts a compelling ensemble cast consisting of Margo Martindale, Hanna Hall, and Adam Scarimbolo. Through these performances, the audience is called to bear witness to a chillingly realistic depiction of events that disrupts the lives of the characters involved.

The film primarily revolves around three main characters: Janice Trimble, played by Margo Martindale, Paige Alexander, played by Hanna Hall, and Jakob Trimble, played by Adam Scarimbolo. Janice Trimble is a middle-aged single mother who dotes on her grown, disabled son, Jakob, and cares for him round-the-clock. As Janice tries to maintain a semblance of normalcy in her already upside-down world, lives are turned upside down when Paige Alexander enters the picture. Paige is a young, vibrant woman who becomes Jakob's caretaker.

The film's narrative is an exceptional portrayal of subjective storytelling as it presents the events from the perspective of these three characters. The unique nonlinear timeline of Scalene adds another layer of engagement to the plot. The storytelling style is akin to solving a puzzle, with each scene fitting into place, gradually redefining our understanding of the characters and events.

The casting is one of the major strengths of Scalene, with credible performances that help the audience fall deeply into the film. Margo Martindale's performance as Janice is particularly noteworthy. Known for her roles in tv-series like 'Justified', here she brings an intensity to her role as she zealously fights for her son and her family's life as she knows it. Her character's complex emotional journey is remarkably portrayed.

Hanna Hall's Paige seems to possess an air of youthful courage, trying to cope with the obligations of her job while maintaining her personal life. The brilliantly woven storyline and her captivating performance provide numerous shades to her character that unfold throughout the movie. Conversely, Adam Scarimbolo's portrayal of Jakob provides a thoughtful and heart-rending depiction of the struggles and realities of being someone living with disabilities, treated as both a child and an adult, creating a poignant atmosphere.

The directing style moves the film at a pace that keeps the audience engaged at every stage. Scene transitions appear seemingly effortless, despite the challenging non-linear narrative, adding a unique touch to the presentation. Furthermore, the cinematography is meticulously planned to bring out the raw and chilling feel of the movie. The use of light and shadows, combined with the film's color palette, creates an overall gloom that hangs over every scene, enhancing the movie's underlying tension and eliciting a constant sense of unease.

Along with the brilliant acting and storytelling, the insightful writing encapsulates the movie's unsettling tone. The portrayal of varied human emotions and the deep-seated fear of loss are beautifully depicted. It touches on how far would a mother go to protect her child and the convoluted decisions that must be made when caught in a dilemma. The narrative delves into the themes of disability, care, and conflict, putting them on full display in a heartrending portrayal of predicaments faced by everyday people.

Additionally, the original score by Ryan Rapsys echoes the tension on-screen, contributing to the gut-wrenching suspense that pervades the narrative. Heightened by sudden moments of silence, the auditory experience amplifies the overall thrilling atmosphere and dramatic tension.

In conclusion, Scalene is a psychological thriller that breaks convention, compelling its audience to follow a nonlinear narrative that intricately interweaves the lives of its three central characters. It echoes a distressing yet intriguing tale of perception, personal struggles, and the thin line that separates love from desperation. The film stands as a testament to thought-provoking storytelling and offers a fresh perspective on human emotions and motivations. A must-watch for those seeking an intense, gripping narrative which leaves you contemplating long after the movie ends.