They're Watching

They're Watching is a 2016 horror-comedy film directed by Jay Lender and Micah Wright. The film boasts an impressive cast including Mia Marcon, Kris Lemche, and David Alpay, among others. The plot revolves around a home improvement television show crew that takes an unplanned detour into the supernatural. What starts as a simple filming process turns into a life-or-death situation as they encounter the mystical, sparking off a chain of events that are as thrilling as they are entertaining.

The film begins with Kate Banks (Mia Marcon), an American woman who chooses to buy a run-down house in Moldova, with her European soccer star boyfriend Vlad (Dimitri Diatchenko). Banks' decision to purchase the house is inspired by her longing to embrace the picturesque setting and simple life that Moldova offers, a stark contrast to her urban, high-paced lifestyle in the States. The transformation process of the house in the quaint village piques the interest of "Home Hunters Global," a home makeover show that chooses to document and feature her home's makeover journey.

Sarah (Carrie Genzel), a self-centered show runner, Greg (David Alpay), the crew's director who is passionate about his work, Alex (Kris Lemche), the breezy cameraman, and Becky (Brigid Brannagh), the production assistant, comprise the main filming crew. While they are professionals and have handled a wide array of shooting situations, nothing prepares them for the odd occurrences and comic horrors that ensue as they return to Moldova six months later to capture the house's transformation.

Upon their return to the village, they learn of the superstitious and mystical beliefs held by the villagers. Accusations of witchcraft, double-crossing real estate agents, and the horror of a decrepit Eastern European village all come together to create a unique, side-splitting brew of laughter and chills against the backdrop of local customs, superstitions, and an unwelcoming entourage of villagers.

Jay Lender and Micah Wright’s directorial debut perfectly blends laugh-out-loud comedy with unique horror elements. Both directors having a background in animation, they employ carefully crafted visual narration and witty dialogue, using horror and humor in balance to ensure the plot is engaging and entertaining.

Mia Marcon does an exceptional job in her role as Kate Banks. Her portrayal of an ambitious, carefree woman who is simply trying to remodel her home amidst cultural barriers and supernatural occurrences is both comedic and empathetic. Kris Lemche, as the snarky comedic relief, complements the quirky ensemble with his impeccable timing and quick wit. David Alpay shines as the dedicated director who reinforces the character-driven humor through his interplay with Lemche's character.

The film's setting in the Eastern European village of Pavlovka, with its forested wilderness and the rustic charm, adds to the eerie and foreboding atmosphere. The unique, less-traveled locale stands out from the standard cityscape or haunted houses usually favored in horror-comedy films, adding an enticingly exotic and ominous touch.

"They're Watching" is one of those movies with a vast appeal; not only does it scare the audience, but it also makes them laugh. This unlikely blend of genres makes for a fun viewing experience where one can appreciate the antics of the cast while on the edge of their seat with suspense. The intricacies of the characters, the setting, and the blend of horror and humor make this a worthwhile movie experience. In many ways, it could be seen as a meeting of "The Blair Witch Project" and "Scary Movie" over home improvement television — a hilarious, sometimes scary, always entertaining romp.

Fans of unusual horror-comedy will undoubtedly enjoy "They're Watching" for its fresh take on the genre, a blend of classic horror elements and situational humor that's truly a unique sight to behold. With witty, perfectly timed one-liners, charismatic and engaging performances, and a twisting, turning plotline that throws surprises at every corner, 'They're Watching' is one film that's sure to keep you just that – watching.