The Device

The Device, released in 2014, is a spine-chilling science fiction thriller that masterfully weaves elements of horror, mystery, and human drama into a tension-filled narrative. Directed by Jeremy Berg and produced by The October People, the film boasts a talented core cast consisting of Angela DiMarco, David S. Hogan, and Kate Alden. It predominantly unfolds in the breathtaking backdrops of Washington and… is set entirely on Earth but somehow skillfully manages to instill an eerie, otherworldly feeling in its viewers.

The movie revolves around the distressingly complex relationship between two estranged sisters, Abby and Rebecca, who are portrayed by Angela DiMarco and Kate Alden respectively. Their lives take an unexpected turn as they discover an object of extraterrestrial origin or "The Device" in the vicinity of their old family cabin, subsequently spiraling their already troubled lives into a whirlpool of fear, paranoia, and confusion.

The Device's premise is grounded in the alien abduction phenomenon, a widely prevalent urban legend that has spurred countless movies and documentaries over the years. However, what distinguishes The Device from its predecessors is the ingenious blend of psychological horror and sci-fi tropes, and a compelling, character-centered narrative that transcends beyond the thematic boundaries of its genre.

Abby’s husband, Calvin portrayed by David S. Hogan, further adds a compelling layer to the narrative. He starts as a supportive figure trying to mend the strained relationship between Abby and Rebecca. However, his character arc changes dramatically as the film progresses, further adding to the many mysteries that shroud the narrative.

The Device doesn't hold back on exploring the psychological impact its characters endure after their unusual encounter. This movie does an exceptional job of highlighting the realistic and terrifying aspects of a supposedly fantastical alien abduction concept. The clash of the characters’ fraught relationships with the escalating tension from the inexplicable events keeps the audience on the edge of their seat, balancing apprehension and anticipation in equal measure.

Director Jeremy Berg's use of shadow and sound to create an ominously atmospheric setting enhances the overall suspense and effectively triggers elements of fear and dread. Berg capitalizes on character development, intricate storylines, and suspense building. The spacious and mysterious woods combined with the surprisingly creepy family cabin—all beautifully filmed locations from Washington—take on a character in itself, further enhancing the film's eerie tone.

Angela DiMarco stands out in her role as Abby, delivering a performance layered with fear, confusion, and emotional pain. Her chemistry with her on-screen sister Rebecca, passionately played by Kate Alden, adds a relatable aspect to the movie, allowing audiences to sympathize with the characters despite the supernatural premise. David S Hogan as Calvin contributes brilliantly to the narrative, with his character garnering audience interest every time he appears on screen.

The Device manages to successfully marry various themes and deftly swing between chilling horror, gripping suspense, and raw human emotions over its runtime. Despite being a small budget film, the creators have maintained a high standard of production values, showcasing an intelligent and effective use of the available resources.

The Device's narrative does not just revolve around the object found in the woods; it digs deeper into the fears, relationships, and traumas of the characters. The element of the unknown, instead of exploiting clichéd jump scares, drives fear into the viewer’s mind. It is also worth noting the film's clever plot twists, which are sparingly used but effectively done till the climax.

For sci-fi and horror enthusiasts who enjoy the interlace of character-driven drama with the elements of supernatural thriller, The Device is a must-watch. It might start slow, but as the plot thickens, it wraps you up in a spellbinding narrative.

To sum it up, The Device is an engrossing indie gem that combines compelling human drama with a chilling sci-fi narrative, backed by strong performances and competent direction. Though it treads on familiar genre territory, the movie manages to stand out due to its grounded storytelling and uniquely humanistic approach to the alien abduction genre.