Starring: Johnathon Schaech and Pell James
Director: Paul Soter
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Lions Gate
DVD Release Date: May 21, 2013
Run Time: 86 minutes
Film: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars
When I see the name “After Dark”, you know that you should expect some decent horror product…but that is not the case here. “Dark Circle” is your typical supernatural horror flick with twist…might I add a bad twist. It is written and directed by Paul Soter, who is a member of the comedy troupe Broken Lizard on films like “Beerfest” and “Super Troopers”. This is a real change for him but he does a good job but I felt the story could have used some kick. Johnathon Schaech and Pell James are great playing sleep deprived parents (I have a 1 year old and felt their pains). There are a few decent jumps as well and great suspense throughout the film but the pay off doesn’t work for me. I would recommend this for a rent, but just don’t hold hopes too high.
Official Premise: When new parents Alex and Penny retreat from the city and move into a place outside town, the stress and massive sleep-deprivation caused by their infant has both of them seeing things. Persistent sightings of a strange woman has each of them wondering if they are suffering from hallucinations, or if their new home holds a dark, supernatural presence. As their fragile grasp on reality spirals into delirium, Alex and Penny find themselves nearly helpless to deal with the horrific truth of what is really going in this house.
“Dark Circle” was only released on DVD from Lionsgate, no Blu-ray love. There are two audio tracks included, a Dolby Digital 5.1 and 2.0 track. The special features are not amazing but worth checking out if you enjoyed the film. There is an audio commentary track with writer/director Paul Soter, Johnathon Schaech and blooger Ryan Turek. It is fun and informative. There is also “Behind-the-Scenes” featurette, with cast/crew interviews. It rather short at just over six minutes but it is pretty decent. Soter does say though in this featurette that he has plans for more horror films, so I am still on board to see what he can come up with next. Lastly, fans of “Beerfest” and “Super Troopers”, be sure to keep an eye out for an quick appearance from Philippe Brenninkmeyer.