Movie: Lights Out
Direction: David F Sandberg
Cast: Teresa Palmer, Gabriel Bateman, Billy Burke, Maria Bello
Music: Benjamin Wallfisch
Cinematographer: Marc Spicer
Editor: Michel Aller
Genre: Horror
Rating: ∗∗∗∗
What is it about: It’s an adaptation from a short film directed by David Sandberg in 2013. This film develops on the core factor of the short film and is been directed by David Sandberg himself who debuts in Hollywood with “Lights Out”.
Why it’s disappointing: This will stay “Lights Out”.
What to watch out for: How often do you see a short film adaptation attracts audience in to the theatres. This one did, and with flying colours. David Sandberg received great accolades for his short back in 2013. And when he was offered a feature film, he did really great with the opportunity.
Lights Out dwells on its old school approach which worked in favour of it. The screenplay was so invested, that it doesn’t try to deflect at any point and your attention is not compromised.
Another high point of the film was its cast which was true at heart and did a fantastic job. Teresa Palmer as Rebecca was great who not only churns an apt one but quite a looker. Then it’s Maria Bello as Sophie the glue which holds the film together. Gabriel Bateman as Martin was a perfect fit. Then comes Alexander DiPersia as Bret, does a commendable one. Finally this character may not have any dialogues but one which drives the entire film, Alicia Vela-Bailey as Diana.
The films photography by Marc Spicer was splendid which was perfectly rendered with delectable grading that built a great mood for the film. The editing was at its best by Michael Aller, he gave a cut throat one keeping it damn sharp. All this was beautifully enveloped with a crisp sound mix which was icing on the cake.
The film has the scare tactics which we have seen over the years, but still gets to you due to one main reason and that being the execution by David Sandberg who proved what he did in 2 ½ minutes in his short film sustained for 81 minutes in the feature film. The last 20 minutes of the film shows the director’s presence of mind in crucial situation which was a hit with the audience hooting and applauding for every scene.
Verdict: David Sandberg impresses with his directorial debut, a meticulously crafted horror flick which keeps the audience at their toes. David does infuse the idea somewhere at the back of your head that if you switch off the lights you will definitely think of his film. A horror feel which was missing from the screens for quite some time. Definitely worth a watch and please do watch it in a well-equipped theatre.
