Skybound

Skybound is an edge-of-your-seat thriller film released in 2017. Directed by Alex Tavakoli, the movie boasts an ensemble cast featuring Scarlett Hefner, Gavin Stenhouse, Rick Cosnett.

Set primarily in the confines of a luxurious private jet, Skybound tells a story of five young friends who decide to embark on a New York to Los Angeles flight amidst a lavish holiday. The crew comprises Matt, a software engineer played by Rick Cosnett; his younger brother, Kyle, who is portrayed by Gavin Stenhouse; Kyle's girlfriend, Rieke (Scarlett Hefner); along with their friends, Lisa (Carla Carolina Pimentel) and Odin (Tyler Fayose).

At the onset, the viewer is presented with a clear image of youth in its prime – wealthy, carefree, embarking on an adventure aboard a luxurious private jet. The actors do an exceptional job of portraying individuals who are thrilled at the thought of transcontinental travel far above the musings of the general public.

However, the flight quickly takes a grim turn when an unexpected, uninvited guest appears aboard the jet as it cruises at 30,000 feet. This twist introduces a palpable sense of tension and an edge of unpredictability that persists throughout the proceedings.

Every aspect of this low-budget film, from the cast performances to the modest yet effective use of special effects, combines to deliver a thrillingly cinematic experience. The actions and decisions of the characters drive the plot rather than being defined by it. The director does an exceptional job of keeping the viewer on edge while the characters struggle with danger high in the sky, circling around the mysteries the uninvited guest brings onboard.

As the story unfolds, the friendships and alliances that once seemed solid start to unravel under the stress, revealing ulterior motives, hidden interpersonal conflicts, and surprising dynamics. This interpersonal drama, combined with the high-stakes environment they're all trapped in, builds a thrillingly claustrophobic atmosphere that keeps viewers biting their nails.

The film's tension is further increased by the complete isolation of the characters being trapped in the sky. Here, the vast expanse of the sky, which is usually an embodiment of freedom and endless possibilities, turns on its head and becomes a chilling wilderness offering no escape. With the situation escalating rapidly with alarming discoveries and worsening conditions, the characters are pitted against the odds, testing their survival instincts. The importance of this isolation is highlighted further when they discover they're unable to land due to a mysterious global catastrophe.

Skybound also touches upon some ethical and psychological quandaries, exploring human nature and survival instincts when faced with an existential threat. Each character's response to the mounting pressure leaves viewers questioning who they should root for, and pondering on how each of us might act under similar circumstances.

While Skybound is a suspense thriller, Tavakoli doesn't shy away from inserting elements of mystery and horror as the plot progresses. The tension buildup is well-paced, ensuring a high-stakes drama that grips the viewers until the very end.

The uncertainties brought by the unexpected visitor, as well as the anger, fear, and survival instincts of the five friends, all portrayed by a talented cast, work in harmony to create a movie that, despite its limited setting and relatively small budget, manages to be a pulse-pounding, nail-biting affair filled with deft suspense, paranoia, and tension.

In conclusion, Skybound is a well-executed thriller that effectively combines elements of suspense, thriller, and mystery genres. The exceptionally well-curated cast, the claustrophobic environment of the plane, the increasing tension and fear of the unknown, all adds up to a film that truly punches above its weight. It's a rollercoaster ride of excitement, suspense, fear and keeps the viewers guessing until the very end without losing its grip on the overall cinematic experience.