WATCH THE TRAILER HERE
First, the Recap:
A simple life. Learning to exist with all the basics covered, working hard to provide what is needed to get by each day, week by week, month by month, year by year. While some may consider an uneventful life mundane, others would graciously surrender their chaotic situation to even have one moment of peace. It is 1999, and a young, rural Missouri-based woman, Tess (Meggie Jenny), goes about her daily routine of arising from sleep, getting ready, preparing breakfast, then heading off to work at her since passed father’s auto shop, wrenches and skills in hand.
It is a day like any other quiet, labor-focused day until late this particular afternoon, when the arrival of an enigmatic stranger, James (Tim Grassi), shakes things up. Initially making inquiries about a possible purchase he’s looking to pursue, the encounter is brief and normal. However, when James appears at her home hours later, Tess begins to be wary of the new visitor. Still convincing, calm, and decent, James then reveals an unexpected truth that rattles Tess’ entire concept of reality. As the next day comes about and James’ warnings continue, what is yet to come is as mystifying as James himself.
Next, my Mind:
With its straight-forward presentation, very human characters, teasing narrative, and ominous, moody tone, the first installment of writer/director/editor Brody Chaze’s film effort promises to deliver a solid, intense, and ever-shifting thriller whose set-up alone in this first part is, needless to say, tantalizing. Utilizing a more muted color palette visually, the story unfolds with a purpose, drawing you in as the viewer, making you guess what is about to happen while also having to surmise what is yet to be seen with effective characters and a clever plot point about its leading man.
Jenny very acutely, but with understated intention, exudes the emotional upheaval Tess undergoes, from the subtle start of events to the more fearful, questioning moments later on, via nuanced expressions, plus most certainly plays the character as an “everywoman” to perfect scope. Likewise, Grassi’s James is the pure definition of a tall, dark, equivocal presence whose genuineness and ease of demeanor is such that one cannot but wonder exactly what his history, designs, and actual disposition is. Grassi portrays these dueling qualities to a “T” and leaves the viewer wanting more while remaining hesitant.
In total, “Serial-Part 1” is but scratching the surface of a greater and more harrowing chronicle to be delivered as Parts 2 & 3 still remain for release at a later date. But make no mistake that, based on this initial material here, we are in for one exciting, exceptional, and impassioned indie film experience.
As always, this is all for your consideration and comment. Until next time, thank you for reading!
