DWF21
headling the Midnight series is
Rust Belt Driller
Renn Maxwell seems to have everything going for him. He has a manager that cares, he’s good enough at his craft (visual art) to have private gallery screenings. He seems to live in a nice looking house and he has a committed, streetwise, and beautiful partner in Carol. But Renn has been followed all his life by something dark. And now with the chaos of the modern world, and his own inner horrors, that evil has finally gotten close enough to reach out and touch. What follows in the next few days will pain the city of Buffalo, NY a whole new canvas, mostly flowing red.
Rust Belt Driller is the epitome of a midnight movie. It’s a celebration of gross practical FX, borderline annoying and meta infomercials, and a bent reality between art and life. The editing is jarring as hell. Be prepared to jump from the varying levels in audio decibels. There’s some really solid camera work, as well. The saturation levels in the color correction throw your brain off-kilter. But this stylistic decision makes an impact. There are definitely moments that could use editing for time. A few stares that last too long would benefit from hitting the cutting room floor.
Of all the performances, I have to mention one standout from the crowd. Mary Coleman as The Homeless Woman was really great. As I watched her short monologue, I audibly said, “Wow, she’s really good.” So, shout out to Miss Coleman. Screenwriter and star Aaron Krygier as Renn is pretty spectacular. His commitment is what sells this entire idea. Am I suggesting you watch this while on some sort of drug? I’m not not suggesting that. Rust Belt Driller is a psychosexual horror from some seriously disturbed minds. While I may not exactly understand the ending, I have to applaud the ingenuity and unadulterated balls it took to make this film.
Rust Belt Driller is a feature Horror film that is headlining the Midnight series on August 27, 2021, at 11:55 PM at Dances with Films at the Mann Chinese Theater in Hollywood.
Dances With Films LA runs from August 26th to September 12th. You can find out more info at https://danceswithfilms.com/home-2021/
At an impasse of religion and love, the title of this thought-provoking short film suggests that it’s a horror film. While not touted as such, what unfolds in 25 minutes between family members is absolutely horrific. To fully appreciate the nuance in Over My Dead Body takes an open mind. Often, we place ourselves in the shoes of the characters on screen. Here, depending on your religious beliefs (or lack thereof), the complexities are unsurpassed. Having religion forced upon me as a child backfired at the age of about 14. In a world filled with volatility caused by media corporations, conflicting gods, and traditions, Over My Dead Body hits harder in modern times. Our families are supposed to love us unconditionally. What happens when that isn’t true? The cinematography is smart and takes advantage of the lush sets and costumes. Performances from this true ensemble cast are magnetic. You know this family. It resembles your own in more ways than you might realize at first watch. With an ending that will leave you breathless, the impact of this short should echo loudly.
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