Spookt

Among the many films in the horror genre, where tales of the supernatural and unexplained mingle with our deepest fears and curiosities, Spookt stands out as a refreshing and stimulating addition. Director Tony Reames, with his keen sense of storytelling, takes audiences on a captivating journey into the heart of small-town legends and the enigmatic world of paranormal investigation.

Spookt celebrates the universality of local legends and ghost stories that resonate around the world. The film begins by reminding us that almost every small town can boast its own spooky tales, stories that bridge the gap between the real and the unknown. These legends, often rooted in fragments of truth, contribute to the creation of horror films that continue to haunt our imagination. The idea that these stories can serve as fertile ground for cinematic inspiration is no more obvious than in the timeless example of The Blair Witch Project, which drew its strength from a local Burkittsville legend. Tony Reames' Spookt seeks to delve deeper into this phenomenon, exploring the symbiotic relationship between local myths and society's endless fascination with the supernatural.

The heart of Spookt is the complex dynamic between its protagonists, Claire (Hayley Leary) and Rachel (Christen Sharice). As the film unfolds, we get to know these two women, diametrically opposed in their beliefs about the supernatural. Rachel, a seasoned debunker with her own YouTube channel, is the epitome of skepticism. She loves visiting allegedly haunted locations and exposing the truth behind local folklore. Conversely, Claire is a newcomer to the paranormal investigation scene, fully convinced that the supernatural is real. This juxtaposition sets the stage for their unexpected collaboration, as they embark on an exploration of the myths surrounding Claire's hometown of Greenville, Pennsylvania.

Greenville itself, portrayed as the quintessential American small town, becomes a character in its own right. The inhabitants, closely linked by a shared heritage of spooky legends, infuse the town with an air of intrigue. From the pale woman who haunts the roads at night to the infamous butcher of Greenvill, the town's history is woven with tales that transcend time. But it's the story of young Flora Blu Giddens, who ventured into the defiantly haunted house and disappeared, that draws Claire and Rachel into a sinister investigation that blurs the boundaries between the corporeal and the supernatural.

Spookt creates its own essence by moving away from the found footage format that has become synonymous with modern horror. Director Tony Reames confidently adopts conventional storytelling techniques while incorporating elements of these newer formats, resulting in a unique visual language that retains an aura of authenticity. The strikingly naturalistic cinematography resists the lure of artificiality, creating an immersive experience where the paranormal blends seamlessly with reality. The absence of stylized images reinforces the impact of the film's horror sequences, which surprise viewers with effective and inventive scares. In particular, a haunted, faceless doll makes an appearance, providing goosebump-inducing moments long after the credits have rolled.

The chemistry between Haley Leary and Christen Sharice is at the heart of Spookt's success. The evolution of their characters, from bitter rivals to hesitant partners, testifies to the actresses' ability to interact. The tension arising from their differing beliefs in the supernatural adds a layer of depth that drives the story forward. Viewers are kept on the edge of their seats, unsure of how far they will succeed in bridging the gap between skepticism and belief. Their on-screen journey, punctuated by intimate confessions and emotional revelations, underscores the film's exploration of camaraderie in the midst of the unknown.

While Spookt boasts an innovative approach and solid character development, it's worth noting that the film's pace sometimes leans towards the deliberate. The narrative momentum, while not a deliberate slowdown, may pose a problem for thrill-seeking viewers. Nevertheless, the film compensates by exploring the enduring appeal of urban legends and their profound impact on human culture and psyche.

Spookt skilfully underlines the idea that beneath the surface of every picturesque city lies a history haunted by tales of the past. The film weaves together themes of camaraderie, the power of belief and the relentless lure of the supernatural to create a unique visual experience. As the characters peel back the layers of mystery surrounding Greenville, the audience realizes that these stories, born of a blend of fact and fiction, continue to captivate and terrify.

Spookt shines with innovation and introspection. Tony Reames' willingness to craft a story that transcends genre expectations and the compelling performances of Sharice and Leary pave the way for a captivating exploration of the unknown. After the credits, "Spook" leaves us to contemplate the enduring importance of local legends and the thin veil that separates our world from the realm of the supernatural.

Spookt
Directed by Tony Reames
Produced by Ian Burke, Cristen Golias, Scott B. Hansen, Haley Leary, Dion Liverpool, Glenna Reames
Written by Torey Haas
Starring Eric Roberts, Erin Brown, Haley Leary, Keith Brooks, Allison Maier, Victor Rivera, Davi Crimmins, Christen Sharice, Crystal Cleveland, Matt J. Morris, Gary Vargo, Jennifer Pearl, Paul Bradford, Jason Bradford, Katy Rudnick, Emma Greene, Jason Thompson, Quinn Reames, Ellie Risavi, Joy Vargo, Merne'e McElhinny, Kayla Kozel, Jace Richards, Hannah McKinney, Patrick Clayton, Kalani Smith
Music by Ian Burke, Cristen Golias, Scott B. Hansen, Haley Leary, Dion Liverpool, Glenna Reames
Cinematography : Torey Haas
Running time : 80 minutes

Viewed August 18, 2023 (Frightfest press screener)

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