FILM INFO: A detective must fight for the redemption of his soul when he finds himself trapped in a mysterious hospital that serves as a gateway between heaven and hell.
WRITTEN BY: Drew Hall DIRECTED BY: Drew Hall GENRE: Supernatural, Thriller TIME: 100 minutes
I always love getting a budgeted indie film to sink my teeth into. Sure, low and no budget films are fun, giving me the chance to maybe see some innovations; at the same time however, it's always nice to reflect on films you pretty much know are going to look good. A chance to write on the movie itself and not just the technical elements. Of course, with that statement, let's also keep in mind that I look for more things to pick at, knowing there was at least some money involved. There has to be some handicap for the lowest budgets, it's not fair to view a no budget film with the same eye as a financed one. So what's the deal with this film presented by Drew Hall? For those who don't like a lot of reading let me sum it up in one sentence: I loved this movie! When comparing this flick to a massively budgeted Hollywood movie, "Convergence" is a slap in the face to all those saying the only good films are big studio productions. This film is a true "feather in the cap" for all independent productions, and it feels good to write that. "Convergence" is slick, polished and smart. Not to mention it's just plain "better" than most of the crap floating around the industry right now. I'll be ordering a personal copy of this film, and if you love the genre... or simply enjoy a good film, I'd suggest you do the same. There's never been a better example when yelling to support indie film. What a great thought indeed. So, I'll admit it. "Convergence" really is my kind of movie. I love the genre and love the era in which most of the film is set. So maybe, just maybe I'm a little biased? Probably. Yet It all comes down to entertainment value when writing a review, and I was totally entertained. The fact that I've already watched it, and still want a copy really says it all. Clayne Crawford leads a talented cast, showcasing his experience with a solid character portrayal. The buck doesn't stop with him however, Mykelti Williamson, Ethan Embry... hell, everyone seems to strut their stuff making "Convergence" a very well acted production. I would love to list everyone... but this isn't an acting review; let's just say that all the cast should be very proud of their performances. Each and every one of them is on my autograph wish list. The first half of "Convergence" really shows off an expert pacing as the plot begins to unfold. Contained within, to me, were elements of "Seven", "Serpent And The Rainbow" and even a few segments that brought "House on Haunted Hill (1999)" to mind. I'm not saying "Convergence" attempts to emulate these films, more like writing how it's just a feeling one get's when watching. Very soon however, Drew Hall's writing begins to separate this film from the ones listed above. As the third act plays out we're left with a very different, and incredibly cool movie. Clues are scattered around, as the third act races closer, but most of us will be pleasantly surprised by the turn of events. It's a funny thing however, the way the film twists and turns as it tries to keep us guessing. On one hand that's what makes it unique. On the other hand it can seem a little much. I'm not writing about the big reveal, which is essentially the answers to all our questions and also my favorite part. I'm talking about all the smaller plot twists placed through the first and second acts. I really feel that a more straight forward narrative, with no twists, would have made the reveal that much more fun. Let's use "From Dusk Till Dawn" as an example. Up until the first vamp transforms in all it's glory, the plot is simple and straight forward. No twists or turns to distract the viewer. Then BAM! Vampires. I truly think the repetitive nature of the plot twists placed all through "Convergence" slightly dulled the impact of the final, big one. Still... in the grand scheme of things this is really a small complaint, hardly changing my thoughts of the film itself. It all boils down to this. Not only was I impressed with this movie, I was also captivated for just over an hour and a half. My world ceased to exist as I witnessed Ben bumbling around a hospital trying to figure out just what the hell was happening. I loved the surprise ending and to me, it completely summed up the entire film. Entertaining. Period. My favorite line? Faith is an extra shell.
