The Intriguing Concept Behind When I Consume You
In Perry Blackshear’s latest feature film, When I Consume You, the title itself holds multiple interpretations, but at its core, it revolves around the concept of inner demons. These demons could manifest as addiction, self-destructive behavior, or even depression, consuming a person from the inside out. Escaping their grip becomes a daunting challenge, but not an insurmountable one. The movie delves into themes of accountability for the death of a loved one and the involvement of a mysterious supernatural force that emerges to aid in coping with the loss.
An Eerie and Despair-Filled Beginning
Right from the opening moments, When I Consume You plunges the viewer into a world of despair and depravity. The film starts with a scene where Daphne, played by Libby Ewing, removes one of her teeth without a clear explanation. It is apparent that something is gnawing at her from within, and this unsettling atmosphere persists as the narrative progresses. We soon discover that Daphne has battled addiction throughout her life, but there is an additional hidden torment gnawing at her soul. She chooses not to confide in her brother, Wilson (Evan Dumouchel), who shares a close and compassionate bond with her. While their relationship is depicted early on with heartfelt scenes of Daphne soothing Wilson during a panic attack, it becomes evident that she harbors secrets of her own. The siblings face the added pressure of a difficult job search and the need to make ends meet, adding to their overall unrest.
A Heart-Wrenching Loss and an Unexpected Reunion
Tragedy strikes when Wilson discovers his sister’s lifeless body and learns that she was murdered by a mysterious cloaked figure. This devastating loss shatters Wilson, as Daphne was always his pillar of support during times of stress, depression, or anxiety. However, after some time, Daphne miraculously returns to the realm of the living, but only Wilson can see and communicate with her. Driven by grief and a desire for justice, Wilson embarks on a journey of revenge alongside the spirit of his beloved sister.
The Aesthetic Choices of Perry Blackshear
Blackshear adopts a primarily straightforward directing style in When I Consume You, opting for a gritty and do-it-yourself (DIY) approach to the entire filmmaking process, which includes directing, writing, editing, and cinematography. This level of creative control can be both a strength and a weakness. While it allows Blackshear to realize his personal vision without compromise, some scenes tend to linger excessively, while others suffer from rough editing, particularly in the quick montage sequences. These moments, presumably intended to hasten the story’s progression, sometimes leave viewers disoriented and struggling to keep track of the narrative flow. Pacing issues become apparent as the film unfolds, especially when dealing with temporal shifts between the present and the past.
Aesthetic Vision and Cinematic Shortcomings
Blackshear excels in capturing claustrophobic horror elements, as seen in the initial scenes depicting the tooth extraction. Additionally, the portrayal of the tender bond between the siblings showcases Blackshear’s directorial strengths. However, the overall execution of the film falls somewhat short. The cinematography effectively conveys the gritty nature of the urban environment, contrasting the characters’ lives before and after Daphne’s demise. In certain ways, it evokes memories of Trey Edward Shults’ “It Comes at Night,” touching upon the themes of trauma and dealing with the loss of a loved one. Nonetheless, the inconsistent editing and excessive use of shaky camera movements hinder the film’s impact. The audience’s understanding of the narrative becomes increasingly challenging as time shifts disrupt the flow. While Blackshear demonstrates mastery in specific aspects, the overall orchestration feels inadequate.
A Promising Premise that Loses Its Way
When I Consume You begins as a straightforward revenge thriller, with ghostly apparitions symbolizing the different stages of grief and addiction: denial, paranoia, depression, and acceptance. However, as the story progresses, it gradually transforms into a genre exercise with occasional horrific thrills. Regrettably, this shift detracts from the film’s potential, leaving audiences yearning for more substance during the first two acts. Instead of deepening the sense of dread and anticipation, the film becomes preoccupied with misdirection, elongating certain sequences without sufficient payoff. While When I Consume You possesses untapped potential, the execution fails to fully captivate and deliver on its intriguing metaphors.
An Anticipated Next Step for Perry Blackshear
It would be interesting to witness Perry Blackshear’s growth as a director in the horror genre through future projects. When I Consume You demonstrates the possibility for rectifying the flaws that affected this film. Despite its shortcomings, Blackshear’s conceptual metaphors on paper hold promise, and with continued refinement, his future works could offer a more satisfying cinematic experience. However, for now, as it stands, When I Consume You leaves viewers somewhat disappointed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Will When I Consume You be available for digital streaming?
Yes, When I Consume You is set to be released on digital platforms on August 16, 2022, enabling audiences to stream and enjoy the film from the comfort of their homes.
2. Does the film focus on themes of addiction?
Absolutely! When I Consume You explores addiction as one of the inner demons the characters grapple with, contributing to their overall turmoil and need for redemption.
3. What is the significance of the cloaked figure in the movie?
The cloaked figure represents the mysterious force from beyond that plays a central role in the narrative. It serves as a catalyst for the protagonist’s journey of revenge and serves to deepen the suspense and intrigue throughout the film.
4. How does When I Consume You differ from other revenge thrillers?
When I Consume You stands out by blending elements of revenge thrillers with supernatural and horror elements. By intertwining these genres, the film offers a fresh and unique take on the concept of seeking justice in the face of personal tragedy.
5. What can viewers expect from Perry Blackshear’s future projects?
While When I Consume You may have its flaws, it showcases Perry Blackshear’s potential as a filmmaker. With future projects, audiences can anticipate further growth in his directorial vision and an exploration of captivating narratives within the horror genre.
Overall, When I Consume You invites viewers to confront their inner demons through a mix of supernatural and revenge-driven storytelling. While the film has its shortcomings, it presents thought-provoking concepts that resonate beyond its execution. With its eerie atmosphere, heartfelt performances, and a compelling premise, it offers a unique viewing experience for audiences seeking a blend of horror and emotional depth.