Mount Adams, the second-highest volcano in Washington state, serves as the backdrop for the film claiming to be “Based On The True Phenomenon” associated with UFOs and mysterious lights. However, the assertion that the movie adheres closely to reality is, at best, a loose interpretation.
UFO investigators Glen Craven (Tim Wade) and Lily Lantz (Emily Sweet) embark on a journey to Mount Adams with their cameraman Blake (Phillip Wade) and a small team. Their mission: investigate reports of strange lights, disappearances, and sightings of dinosaur-like creatures.
Upon reaching the mountain, the team interviews Richard (Edward Stiner), who warns them about red lights in the sky and introduces them to Willie (Tom Avila), claiming to have insights into the timing and location of these lights.
Mount Adams, shot in 2016 and initially slated for release in 2019, is directed by Phillip Wade, who co-wrote the script with his brother Tim and Just B. Jordan. The film begins impressively with footage of creatures and spaceships on an alien planet, showcasing decent effects for a low-budget production. However, as the story progresses, it becomes dominated by dialogue-heavy scenes.
While some witness interviews effectively contribute to the narrative, other scenes suffer from subpar dialogue and acting. The cast’s limited experience becomes evident, with instances of stiffly delivered lines, even from the typically reliable Emily Sweet. It’s worth noting that Mount Adams may have been one of her earliest films, considering its filming date.
Fortunately, the film doesn’t dwell on these shortcomings for too long. By the thirty-minute mark, UFOs reappear, the team’s ranger guide is found dead, and a giant alien dragonfly starts attacking. The narrative introduces three lizard creatures, predominantly CGI, but wisely keeps them nocturnal to mask any visual flaws. When revealed in daylight, they are less impressive but still surpass expectations.
The script exhibits inconsistency, efficiently propelling the plot forward and avoiding common pitfalls of low-budget science fiction. However, it occasionally lapses into moments of absurdity, such as the head ranger getting the team lost or the entire team sleeping without a watch after a night attack.
Mount Adams raises several unanswered questions about the origin and purpose of the creatures. It’s unclear whether the lizards are connected to the UFOs or serve as mere companions to the unidentified pilots.
In many aspects, Mount Adams harkens back to classic television films like The Alien Factor and Planet of the Dinosaurs. Despite its budgetary constraints, the film exudes enthusiasm, prioritizing effects over plot. As a straightforward monster movie, it provides an entertaining diversion.
For those interested, Mount Adams is available for streaming via SP Releasing.