Failure !

In the realm of cinematic storytelling, Failure! stands out as a striking anomaly, capturing both the essence of moral dilemmas and the lengths one is willing to go to protect one's family legacy. Director Alex Kahuam's exploration of these themes is buoyed by Ted Raimi's pitch-perfect performance in a gripping one-take thriller that leaves audiences both breathless and contemplative, with the urge to applaud when the credits roll.

The film's roots in Ingmar Bergman's classic The Seventh Seal are obvious, as it opens with a nod to the legendary filmmaker's work. Alex Kahuam's narrative sensibilities draw on this homage and give it a modern twist, weaving a complex tapestry of choices, sacrifices and intricate interactions between human emotions.

At the heart of the film is businessman James (Ted Raimi at his rpole best). James is a man at a crossroads, facing a financial crisis that threatens not only his own future, but also the legacy of his family's plastics factory. The camera becomes an unflinching witness to James' growing despair, as he goes through a series of encounters that put the fate of his company and his loved ones at stake.

Alex Kahuam's decision to shoot the film in one continuous take is a bold one, and one that pays off handsomely. This technique plunges the audience into the heart of James' turmoil, allowing us to witness every nuance of his character's emotional rollercoaster. Ted Raimi delivers a performance that is nothing short of masterful. His interpretation of James is complex, oscillating between panic, determination and moments of introspection. Raimi seamlessly traverses the range of emotions demanded by the character, making James both understandable and morally complex. Far from offering us a play filmed in real time, the director delivers a spellbinding thriller that leaves no time to breathe.

The supporting cast, though not all perfect, provide an effective backdrop against which Ted Raimi's performance shines even more brightly. Characters from James's life converge in his home, bringing different perspectives and motivations that reflect the complexity of real-world relationships. The tension created by these interactions, combined with the sense that time is running out, amplifies the stakes and keeps the viewer captivated.

If the film's pace occasionally falters, particularly during certain interactions that feel more like filler, the overall narrative arc remains captivating. The incorporation of an imaginary character in a robe, who challenges James to a metaphorical game of chess while offering advice and criticism, adds a layer of intrigue that parallels the playful nature of life's decisions.

Alex Kahuam's direction is meticulous, choreographing camera movements with precision to maintain an uninterrupted visual narrative. The continuous shooting technique places us within the confined walls of James's home, enveloping us in his world of turmoil and critical choices. As the camera moves from character to character and room to room, we become active participants, emotionally invested in James's predicament.

Failure! is a compelling reminder of cinema's power to reflect the complexities of life. James' internal struggle mirrors the external pressures of societal expectations, moral dilemmas and the pursuit of success. The film touches on themes of family legacy, the weight of responsibility and the compromises we make to secure the future of our loved ones.

Failure! proves to be a beacon of bold experimentation. Alex Kahuam's direction and Ted Raimi's performance create an immersive experience that immerses the viewer in James' tumultuous journey. Despite its slight flaws, the film offers a stimulating exploration of choices, consequences and the eternal quest for redemption. As the credits roll, Failure! lingers in the mind, prompting us to reflect on our own paths, our choices and the legacy we seek to leave behind. One of our favorites of this year's Frightfest, and one we'd advise you to check out as soon as it's released...

Failure!
Written and directed by Alex Kahuam
Produced by Alex Kahuam, Marco De Molina, Kayli Fortun, Ted Raimi, Jose D. Rodriguez
Starring Ted Raimi, Merrick McCartha, Noel Douglas Orput, Melissa Diaz, Christin Muuli, Daniel Kuhlman, LeVar Michael, Spencer Langston, John Paul Medrano, Ernest Cavazos, Joe Barra, Chris Paul Morales, Alex Sands, Hyeong Choi
Music: Vincent Gillioz
Cinematography: Ernesto Lomeli
Editing: Alex Kahuam     
Running time: 87 minutes

Viewed on August 13, 2023 (Frightfest press screner)

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