Paradox Lost Trailer from dennis curlett on Vimeo. directed by:
Dennis Curlett written by: Dennis Curlett genre: Sci-Fi, Comedy |
It all begins with a man in a yellow slicker burying something in the dead of night. It's a striking image and one that sets the tone for the entire film to follow - one of them anyhow. By the time we find out the name of the man in the slicker, Copper, we're already fully aware this is not your typical film - even for a time travel movie. You see, reader, Copper is the unborn son of the protagonist Barnaby who is sent from the future to ... well, clean up messes, so to speak. If you have visions of the film "Looper" running through your head, you couldn't be further from the truth. "Paradox Lost" is not that, and in a lot of ways, it is better.
Maybe not better in terms of the budget or big names backing it, but better in the sense that it's far more interesting. To me, at least. I absolutely loved what I call the awkward comedy of this flick and the way it's all put together. By the time Barnaby and Copper really get into the story of Copper's mother, about halfway through the film, I was hooked. Dennis Curlett has pieced together a movie that will appeal to those who enjoy a light dramatic story held loosely together by its science fiction elements. The sci-fi aspects are meant to tell a good story, not overpower it - and the glue holding it all together is pliable enough to allow hints of multiple genres. In short? This was a great film and an excellent project showcasing low-budget done correctly. As I assume you've guessed by now, I really enjoyed this film. "Paradox Lost" surpassed all my expectations, and I'm not sure what else I can really say on the subject. It's a combination of things, really. From the way it played out on my screen to the little details that can be both funny and oddly frightening at the same time. For example, did you know that around thirty-five percent of all homeless people are actually agents from the future? That's just one of the truths "Paradox Lost" has educated me on - some of the humor of this film. But Curlett's movie doesn't put all its eggs in one basket. First, there's the overarching story of a disaster that devastates the world - and of course, the whole paradox aspect, as the name of the movie implies. Then there are the improv points of the film and the relationship between Barnaby and Copper. My only complaint? I wish Rose were utilized more in the film before the third act.
By the time our hero's meddling caused the disappearance of one of the improv crew, I was totally immersed. That says quite a bit because, by this point, I had stopped thinking of "Paradox Lost" as a low-budget indie film and instead just considered it a movie. A regular movie - and there is a significant distinction. I'm not saying that everything was perfect and that this was a masterclass of filmmaking - but damn, reader, I enjoyed it. Dennis Curlett and his troupe have put forward a well-written, well-acted flick that I have no problem recommending. Four and a half stars. |
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