Test Screening review: Engrossing and nostalgic body horror with a queer love story

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As a seasoned gamer who has spent countless hours navigating digital realms and unraveling intricate narratives, I can confidently say that Clark Baker’s directorial debut, “Test Screening”, is a gripping tale that resonates with my love for immersive storytelling. The film’s 1982 setting and sci-fi premise reminded me of a thrilling blend of “Dimension 404” and “They Live”, keeping me on the edge of my seat.

In the small, traditionally-minded town, it was announced they’d be hosting an extraordinary movie premiere – little did they know, this film screening in Test Screening, a debut directorial effort by Clark Baker that made its appearance at Screamfest 2024, would later reveal itself as a covert mind-control experiment with disastrous results.

1982 serves as the backdrop for the tale, Test Screening, which revolves around a tight-knit circle of friends who are captivated when a renowned filmmaker selects their town to screen an innovative movie. However, this narrative takes a sinister turn in the realm of sci-fi, bearing resemblances to the short-lived Hulu series Dimension 404 and John Carpenter’s iconic work, They Live.

Interestingly, I found myself switching to Test Screening just shortly after finishing The Substance, and without revealing any plot details, there’s a chilling, climactic sequence at the end of Test Screening that eerily echoes the final act of The Substance.

The idea of a movie screening turning into something used as a method to control the masses has been toyed with before, but I appreciated the honesty of Test Screening that taps into the fear one might get from having a safe space turned into something so warped and twisted. Test Screening is anchored by its four main cast members, Johnny Berchtold, Drew Scheid, Rain Spencer, and Chloë Kerwin, plus the sweet queer love story at the center.

I found it delightful that the Test Screening dared to make significant moves, a decision that proved successful thanks to convincing and appropriately gruesome practical effects, as well as endearing performances from the principal actors. The film cleverly steers clear of overused 1980s stereotypes in character development and instead crafts authentic characters, particularly those portrayed by Scheid’s Reels and Kerwin’s Penny, who resemble real people. These characters help maintain a sense of reality within the more eccentric elements of the movie.

To be honest, certain sections of the script seem a bit underdeveloped and overly explanatory. However, I genuinely enjoyed the Test Screening and believe it has potential to engage young audiences when it starts streaming.

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2024-10-10 06:25