Sweet Taste of Souls

Sweet Taste of Souls is a 2020 horror-themed movie that artfully combines elements of psychological thriller and dark fantasy genres, crafting an eerie experience that's hard to forget. The film, directed by Terry Ross and written by Felicity Mudgett, takes viewers on an emotionally charged rollercoaster ride – one that balances magically surreal moments with deeply disturbing undertones. Honey Lauren, John Salandria, and Mark Valeriano lead the cast, skillfully playing their roles in this macabre and surreal narrative.

At the heart of the film's plot is a unique twist on the horror trope of cursed objects; it revolves around a beautifully unique, yet eerie, vintage curio shop in a seemingly peaceful small town. The shop's soft-spoken, mysterious and elegant owner, Ellen (played by Honey Lauren), holds a startling affliction on the innocent visitors who dare to patronize her store, or worse still, cross her.

The film opens with an off-beat, semi-hipster indie band named "Flying Lion" seeking a revival opportunity after a recent setback. The band, comprising of lead singer Nate (John Salandria), bassist Kyle (Mark Valeriano), guitarist Roy, and drummer Daisy, inadvertently crosses paths with the troubled shopkeeper as they make a pit stop in the coastal town. It's from here where the film takes a dark turn, pushing the band members into a surreal nightmare where they are trapped, powerless, and unable to escape the shopkeeper's vindictive tendencies.

The Sweet Taste of Souls takes a route less traveled by horror movies, implementing more of a slow-burn approach that gradually builds up tension. The storyline rewards patient audiences with brilliantly executed climaxes that provoke deep thoughts and create apprehension through a well-crafted play of suspense and mystery.

Honey Lauren's performance as the psychologically damaged and vengeful Ellen is noteworthy. She balances the portrayal of her character's tortured soul and ruthlessness with finesse, elevating the chilling atmosphere of the movie. John Salandria manages to stand out with his character, Nate, as he puts forth an emotionally intense performance. His portrayal of a character desperately trying to rationalize the bizarre situation they found themselves in is genuinely engaging. Mark Valeriano, as Kyle, provides strong support, adding depth to the twisted tale.

Visually, the movie does a commendable job of creating a haunting ambiance. The film uses a rich palette of ominous shadows and warm colors that lend a vintage feel to the setting, very much reminiscent of old school horror classics. The soundtrack subtly enhances the film's overpowering atmosphere, adding an extra layer of dread and anticipation that aids in keeping the audience on edge.

The movie's strong point is its unique narrative that plays out like a twisted fairytale. Every moment is well-placed to lead the viewers deeper into the dark world of Ellen's making. That the movie doesn't rely solely on jump-scares or gore to elicit fear is a testament to its creative storytelling. Instead, it uses psychologically unsettling themes to leave a lasting impression on the viewer.

The Sweet Taste of Souls brilliantly utilizes suspense, character development, and a myriad of plot twists to explore the depths of vengeance and redemption. It strikes a good balance between the elements of supernatural fantasy and unsettling horror, painting a dark picture of how souls can be held captive by past trauma. While veering away from traditional scare tactics typically seen in horror flicks, it leverages the complex interplay between its characters and the psychological torment they endure to offer a genuinely nail-biting experience.

While the Sweet Taste of Souls is not for the faint-hearted or those looking for a fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping scream-fest, it is the perfect choice for viewers who appreciate a well-crafted psychological horror with a touch of the macabre. This film, with its creative concept, intriguing storyline, and riveting performances, is certainly a unique addition to the vast realm of horror cinema.