Italian
Time-travel thriller explores the haunting grip of the past
A sibling saga steeped in sci-fi
The concept of being “stuck in the past” comes to life, both literally and metaphorically, for two estranged siblings in the riveting sci-fi drama, “Things Will Be Different”. In his directorial debut, Michael Felker spins a tale that’s as much about the human quest for redemption as it is about the mechanics of time travel. This low-budget, tension-filled crime thriller masterfully intertwines the urgency of mending past mistakes with the tantalizing prospects of a changed future.
The story: Time, crime, and second chances
Following a botched robbery, the estranged siblings Joseph, portrayed by Adam David Thompson, and Sidney, played by Riley Dandy, seek refuge in an isolated farmhouse. Unbeknownst to them, this home harbors manual clocks and an unassuming closet that serves as a portal to the past. Their acquaintance instructed them to lay low for a few weeks before returning to their timeline, promising they would be free from their misdeeds while keeping the stolen goods.
A nostalgic journey
As they adapt to their new circumstances, physical media from the past—VHS tapes, CDs, and a tape recorder—highlight their temporal shift. This clever cinematic detail enriches the narrative, reinforcing the eerie atmosphere. Joseph and Sidney attempt to reconnect during their stay, unearthing old wounds and unresolved conflicts. But as their waiting period ends, they discover they are trapped in a “vice grip”—unable to leave and forced to confront an unwelcome visitor to escape.
Visual storytelling: A director’s vision
Director of photography Carissa Dorson makes bold visual choices that keep the film engaging despite its limited setting. A notable 360-degree pan through changing seasons displays the siblings’ year-long confinement, enhancing the story’s emotional depth. This, coupled with match-cut close-ups and lenses that blur the edges, mimics the sensation of time looping. The visual representation of themes through these techniques captivates viewers and underscores the film’s narrative strength.
Character dynamics: Emotional depth and distress
The film’s emotional core lies in the raw performances of Thompson and Dandy. Joseph’s rugged demeanor and Thompson’s visceral outbursts contrast sharply with Dandy’s portrayal of Sidney, who exudes a compelling coldness. This emotional dichotomy emphasizes their differing perspectives and unresolved grievances. As they grapple with their circumstances and the looming threat of endless wandering or death, their performances drive home the weight of their predicament.
Tension and pacing: A nod to sci-fi greats
“Things Will Be Different” draws comparisons to genres mastered by Christopher Nolan’s “Tenet” and Rian Johnson’s “Looper.” The film’s intricate time-travel mechanics and refusal to answer all questions create an air of mystery and complexity. By the finale, audiences may feel the need to chart out timelines to fully grasp the overlapping events. A symbolic tattoo resembling a Venn diagram on both characters hints at their interconnected fates, offering a subtle clue to understanding the story’s deeper layers.
Crafting suspense: Felker’s editing prowess
Masterfully edited by Felker himself and Rebeca Marques, the film maintains a tight grip on suspense. Felker’s background in editing, notably on “The Endless,” prepares him to weave together enigmatic clues subtly. Throughout the film, details like a song on a boombox or fleeting flashbacks divert viewer expectations, maintaining intrigue around the identity of their mysterious opponent. This balance of high concept and human element often falters, but it demonstrates an ambitious attempt to merge emotional depth with intellectual challenge.
A memorable debut
“Things Will Be Different” stands as a promising debut for Felker, showcasing his ability to blend heartfelt storytelling with mind-bending sci-fi concepts. While the film navigates complex narrative structures and emotional arcs, it’s the precise balance of storytelling elements that offers a satisfying experience. The film invites viewers to ponder the intricacies of time, redemption, and the unbreakable ties of family.
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