Creep

Creep

Starring Mark Duplass, Patrick Brice

Directed by Patrick Brice

The Story:
Aaron (Patrick Brice) is in need of money, so he answers an ad on Craigslist to videotape a man named Josef (Mark Duplass).  When he arrives at Josef's place, he seems a bit off, but Aaron feels its because he's dying of a brain tumor, and wants to make a video for his yet unborn son.

As the day progresses, Josef begins acting even stranger, and Aaron becomes unnerved by him.  Then Josef's motives become more clear, and Aaron begins to fear for his life.

The Synopsis:
"Creep" is a surprisingly effective found-footage film that centers on just two main characters.  Aaron, the man behind the lens, portrayed by director and co-writer Patrick Brice, and Josef, the odd mysterious creeper brilliantly played by fellow co-writer Mark Duplass.  Blumhouse Productions produced the film, and they've been on the positive end of horror movies as of late ("The Visit," "Insidious," "Oculus," "The Gift").  While, as I said, it was a found-footage film, "Creep" manages to really drive home the suspense and palpable sense of dread throughout, something most FF films fail to do.

This is due, in large part, to the two leads.  Not only is their on-screen chemistry amazing, but you can tell this is a labor of love for both men.  They're truly proud of what they've produced, and it shows with every frame.  The film begins by introducing the two characters and giving the viewer a sense of calm before the storm.  At first, Josef seems like an average guy who wants to do right with his son, but almost immediately things begin taking dark turns, one of which involves Aaron filming Josef in the tub to show his unborn son "tubby time," where he was once bathed by his own father.  The whole scene was unnerving, but it was just the tip of the terrifying iceburg to come.

The film is a surprisingly scant 70 minutes, and that's all they need to set up a fantastic story.  There's still questions at the end, and you'd find yourself frustrated at some of the actions by the protagonist, but that sets up the realism the film delivers.  This isn't a polished film with characters who know every trick in the book.  Aaron is a soft soul, who wants to see the good in everyone.  So some of his actions, although frustrating to the viewer, are completely natural for him as a character.  If the film had been longer, it would've taken on a bloated feeling, whereas the shorter runtime was just right.

The most creepy thing about the film is how true to life it could be.  It serves as a cautionary tale to always beware of what you answer on Craigslist, and to always have a plan. It also detracts you from making new "friends" on the Internet.

The Summary:
"Creep" is a creepy, tense, atmospheric found footage film with two dedicated actors who put their all into it, and leaves you feeling unnerved after viewing.

The Score: A-