The Special

The Special released in 2020 is a compelling rollercoaster of a film that merges elements of horror, thriller, and mystery genres, creating an atmosphere that sends chills down the viewer's spine. This film, a brainchild of director B. Harrison Smith, stars Davy Raphaely, Dave Sheridan, and Sarah French, who deliver engaging performances, giving the audiences a rich cinematic experience.

To begin with, Davy Raphaely plays the lead character, Jerry, a regular family man whose life suddenly spirals into a bizarre mystery following a catastrophic event. Jerry’s effort to cope with his continually deteriorating life forms the backbone of the plot. Known for his convincing portrayal of multifaceted characters, Raphaely adds a unique depth to Jerry, making the audiences connect and empathize with his trials and tribulations.

Adding another layer to the movie's storyline is Dave Sheridan, playing Mike, Jerry's best friend. His character is the catalyst that influences Jerry's decisions, and inevitably plunges him deeper into the mysterious circumstances. Sheridan's craftsmanship renders a nuanced understanding of his character, Mike, and allows the viewer to explore the length and breadth of his role within the film.

Sarah French, who plays Lisa, Jerry's wife, provides yet another pivotal dimension to the film. Her portrayal of the loving wife who suffers the blowback of Jerry's misadventures makes the audience resonate with her despair and ignites deep-rooted feelings of sympathy. Her balance of fear and determination underpins the gravity of their complicated relationship, ultimately adding to the cinematic intensity of the film.

The Special presents us with a haunting labyrinth of mystery and horror woven together. At its core, however, it touches upon themes that are universally relatable—the struggles of ordinary life, the turmoil in relationships, and the dire consequences of unfortunate choices. Its narrative syntax juxtaposes the mundane reality of everyday life with an undercurrent of sinister horror, resulting in an unconventional film that sets new boundaries for the genre.

The narrative style of the movie deserves special mention. It tactfully oscillates between normalcy and chaos, using this contrast to keep the audience on the edge of their seats throughout its run-time. It explores two parallel timelines—one presenting the cheerful everyday happenings and the other warping us onto a path riddled with twists and turns, presenting a truly captivating storyline filled with intense moments of tension.

The Special's cinematography is another feature that enhances its overall appeal, with its unique use of setting and lighting contributing to the suspense-filled atmosphere that the narrative demands. Both dim and well-lit scenes are adequately balanced to create the right amount of intrigue and apprehension, adding to the charm of the plot and propelling it forward.

The movie is well paced, gradually peeling back layers of mystery and horror, revealing glimpses of the dark reality that Jerry has stumbled into. It encourages the audience to feel the characters' internal struggles and external pressures, thereby immersing the viewer into their world. Without revealing any spoilers, it is worth mentioning that the film concludes with a climax that is emotionally stirring and leaves the audience reeling from the impacts of the characters' complicated lives and choices.

The Special's sound design also contributes to its eerie, thriller-like appeal. The suspenseful scoring and well-timed sound effects, coupled with the haunting silence in some scenes, leave the audience with an undercurrent of unease, enhancing the overall horror-thriller experience.

In summary, The Special is a gripping film that holds the viewer's attention from start to finish. While it primarily falls under horror and mystery genres, its exploration of the human condition and the consequences of personal choices give it a philosophical depth. It unravels an unexpected journey of its characters, complemented by solid performances and unique narrative techniques, leaving the audiences both thrilled and intrigued. The Special, with its novel approach to storytelling, provokes thought, raises questions, and offers a viewing experience that captures and retains the viewer's interest. It is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a well-spun yarn of mystery and horror, with a touch of human realities.