Embryo

"I love horror films. I love the mood and the way horror or sci-fi can put you on edge, quicken your pulse, and sharpen your senses. With Embryo I wanted to take advantage of that heightened state of mind to tell a fantastic story about a twisted tale of alien insemination, cannibalism and, of course, the lengths to which we are prepared to go for someone we love. Embryo is a sci-fi thriller, a twisted hybrid film that plays out a road movie genre spliced with elements of "Species" (1995), Breakdown (1997) and found footage features. Our little terror tale story focuses on a few characters within just a single storyline. The majority of the film is told visually and, I believe, is easily comprehensible from start to finish. We shot in Spanish in Chile." - Patricio Valladares

Embryo discovered during the FrightFest festival had a real potential to make its place among the many films on offer. Film en found footage is based on a story about a young camper couple Kevin and Evelyn. Evelyn is about to be abducted and impregnated by aliens. The embryo that develops in her will not only change her behavior but will lead her to commit several very violent murders. Evelyn gradually understands that her desires can only be satisfied by human flesh and blood and that her embryo manipulates her and forces her to commit the unforgivable.

Such a story could have given life to a shock film and unfortunately the result is too simplistic and the editing would have deserved a more inspired work. However, Patricio Valladares is not a first-time director. So after Toro Loco (2011), En las Afueras de la Ciudad (2012), Vlad's legacy (2018), Embryo could have been convincing with a more accomplished script and hold our attention but in this case, we really find it difficult to support this film. Of course, Embryo has many qualities, such as relying on an invested cast and efficient special effects. However, there is a long-lasting boredom due to the lack of a sustained rhythm and an obvious lack of means.

Embryo
Directed by Patricio Valladares
Produced by Patricio Valladares, Barry Keating
Written by Barry Keating, Patricio Valladares
Starring Romina Perazzo, Domingo Guzmán, Carolina Escobar, Cristian Cuentrejo
Music by Luigi Seviroli
Cinematography: David Rebolledo
Edited by Patricio Valladares
Release date: October 24, 2020 (UK)
Running time: 72 minutes

Viewed on October 18, 2020 (screener press)

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