Brooklyn, New York – For thriller fans, the question “Did I really see what I thought I saw?” is a classic conundrum, and it gets a fresh twist in the new flick starring Simon McNally. In this intense film, Simon sees something shocking: a young woman being forced into a van. But convincing others of his claim proves difficult due to his severe mental illness.
Simon, portrayed by an unnamed actor, battles not only with his reality but also with a persistent, furry, red figure in his mind, constantly berating him. After a disastrous job interview, his life seems to spiral further. The story kicks off with Simon struggling to navigate a world that treats him with suspicion.
His saving grace comes from his neighbor, Ed Deerman, also an actor whose name is not mentioned, who recently lost a security job and is wallowing in bitterness and bad poker losses. When Simon first approaches Ed for help, he gets a cold shoulder. But as their paths cross multiple times, the two form a shaky alliance that pushes the story forward.
The film is skillfully woven by writer Sean Farley and director Duncan Skiles. They avoid turning the partnership into odd-couple comedy, a choice that bolsters the film’s tension. The off-screen narrators named “Mitch” and “Murray” provide a slight nod to David Mamet but do not detract from the narrative.
What stands out is how the film portrays mental illness. It does so thoughtfully, avoiding condescension while also aligning with contemporary calls for responsible representation. This approach sets the stage for a narrative rich with suspense and unexpected turns.
As the plot thickens, viewers are treated to gripping moments of violence that are both shocking and thought-provoking. It raises the question of why root-for-the-underdog thrillers such as this don’t receive broader acknowledgment or promotion.
This film taps into a nostalgic vein for fans who long for classic storytelling in thrillers. It may surprise those who believe that the golden age of thrillers is behind us. With its 92-minute runtime and an R rating, this film will likely resonate with audiences looking for something fresh yet familiar in the genre.
