Low-budget sci-fi brings to life a grimy, brutal world
tchelitchew
"BAB" is one seriously distinctive science fiction film, certainly one of the best blind buys from a dollar bin I've made. The grimy, bombed out environs…
"BAB" is one seriously distinctive science fiction film, certainly one of the best blind buys from a dollar bin I've made. The grimy, bombed out environs reminded me a bit of the "Fallout" games, but the vibe here is artier and bleaker. The eccentric world building also brought to mind 1989's "Sonny Boy", sans the comedic absurdity. Although budget limitations are frequently apparent, the production design and visuals are quite strong, nailing the dingy, lived-in locales. The casting is very well done, with the actors all having world-weary visages that bespeak their troubled pasts.In an alternate history 1959, Minston County is ruled over by brutally repressive local despot Bascum, a hypocritical puritan known for conducting impromptu amputations of defiant citizens. He's particularly vicious towards local sex workers, conducting cruel treatments and experiments to "correct" their bad behavior. Bascum lives in a small fortress protected by a gaggle of misfit guards. His increasingly resentful mistress Rhoda is required to indulge his fantasies. Donnie, the son of one of his victims, works with gifted tactician Milt to end Bascum's brutal reign.Sterling Macer, Jr., practically steals the show as Milt, the mystery man who convinces Donnie to seek revenge for his mother's mistreatment. Veteran actress Suzan Crowley is also striking as the jaded, Dietrich-like Rhoda. Things slow a bit in the final act once the revenge plot has concluded, but the film's last moment ends up being its most powerful. It's a real shame "BAB" hasn't found its audience. I hope it can find attain some kind of cult status eventually. Thanks, Echo Bridge!
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★ 8 / 10
A small town ruled by fear and religion
Woodyanders
Evil and ruthless religious zealot Bascum (well played with smooth menace by Robert Miano) rules over a small town with an iron fist. Vengeful Donnie (a fine…
Evil and ruthless religious zealot Bascum (well played with smooth menace by Robert Miano) rules over a small town with an iron fist. Vengeful Donnie (a fine performance by Nick Heyman) decides to take Bascum down for good for torturing his mother Babs.
Writers/directors Joe DeBoer and Kyle McConaghy relate the absorbing oddball story at a steady pace, maintain a dark brooding tone throughout, vividly evoke the grimly oppressive nature of the hellish small town, make nice use of dingy'n'desolate locations, and make a strong statement on how religion and intimidation can be used as a means to control people's lives. The sound acting from the sturdy cast keeps this movie humming: Sterling Macer Jr. As helpful outsider Milt, Suzan Crowley as the no-nonsense Rhoda, Mathew Greer as beaten down hotel owner Mr. Harold, David Gridley as cheerful dimwit Brenton, Jessica Treska as Donnie's spunky sister Bean, and Brynn Horrocks as weary waitress Miss Sheri. A neat little movie.
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4.5/10
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