It feels like over the past few years, we've seen a resurgence of Stephen King properties hit the big screen and small screen alike. Some of them have been celebrated like IT: Chapter One or Castle Rock. While others have been met with mixed responses such as IT: Chapter Two or the most recent book to screen, Doctor Sleep. Sleep served as both an adaption of King's 2013 book and a sequel to 1980's The Shining. Throughout the resurgence though, it hasn't been all love. The Dark Tower and the most recent Pet Semetary have proven that not all King content is gold. Perhaps even in the midst of all his big screen films, his Netflix films went unnoticed. Yup, there is so much Stephen King content that even some of it manages to fly under the radar - films like 1922 & Gerald's Game.
Though, before Stephen King ever made it big in books or the big screen - there was another. Most people will read that and think I'm talking about Edgar Allen Poe. While being born in Baltimore, where Poe is from, this is not about him. On the contrary, this is about an author who has a recognizable name but not in the way you may think about. I'm talking about H.P. Lovecraft. Lovecraft has been a household name around cult classic circles but never truly reached the status of impact the way that Poe or King did. Which is ironic to say aloud because some of Lovecraft's works or habits throughout his writing have been executed into multiple mediums throughout the horror genre. Though, he is probably most famous for Cthulhu. A monster that looks like a humanoid octopus. Though, Lovecraft has so much to offer.
His famous short story, Color Out of Space, now finds new life in the 2020 big screen adaption featuring Nicolas Cage. Color Out of Space chronicles the effects of a meteoroid crashing to a family's farm and subsequently imprisoning them. All while terraforming the land and its inhabitants along the way. The film's director in Richard Stanley has become a larger name among cult film enthusiasts. Responsible for b-movie hits such as Hardware and the now-infamous, The Island of Doctor Moreau. Stanley, for the most part, has removed himself from making films for these past few years. Even with his already established filmography, Stanley isn't going to be everyone's cup of tea. However, with Color, Stanley manages to create a unique environment that not only mirrors the source material of Lovecraft but allows for his own visual aesthetic to shine through. Serving as co-writer as well, Stanley manages to bleed tension with intensely focused shots. It's incredible in the same breath how Stanley can manage to be intense, while also housing arthouse shots that feel very modern for a director of his caliber.
Visually, Color, feels like the distant cousin to Cage's 2018 film, Mandy. The slow burn approach to the horror takes on new life with its cinematography. Cinematographer, Steven Annis, helps establish the visuals in the movie as much a character as any of Cage or his on-screen family. Honestly had the visuals been anything less than what they are, this entire movie would have fallen apart. The story hinges so heavily on the visual aspect that it feels void without it. Annis absolutely dominates and makes his presence known throughout. In the same breath, you need a strong family that is going to convey the emotion needed for the story.
Nicolas Cage has a strong presence throughout the course of this film. His range is undeniable - though it's duel personality that helps him to stand out. Balancing between peace and chaos, Cage is electric when you see him on the screen. Though, there are some moments within the film that feel out of place even for his character. Perhaps, though, no one outside of Cage shines brighter than his daughter, Madeleine Arthur. Arthur opens up a range that challenges Cage and equally stands on par with him. She is absolutely incredible as the rebellious, heartbroken and utterly insane daughter. Her arc glues your eyes to her and manages to never let go. She is astonishing from the moment you first meet her until her final frame.
Overall, Color Out of Space, is a bizarre slow burn worth the wait. The film houses two incredible performances from Nicolas Cage and Madeleine Arthur. Both actors are constantly challenging one another in strength and range. Both arcs open up the actor and actress so wide, it's a joy simply to see them go as far to the edge as they do. The film marks the wonderous return of Richard Stanley. The co-writer and director returns to craft an eerie environment that paces itself incredibly well and is lined with unsettling imagery, humor and horror along the way - while never feeling out of tone. The cinematography from Steven Annis manages to make the film come alive. Allowing the narrative to reach its' full potential. Color Out of Space is bizarre, beautiful and absolutely worth the burn you endure to reach the finish.
RORSCHACH RATING:
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Music by Beggars. Color Out of Space is property of XYZ Films, Ace Pictures, SpectreVision, & RLJE Films. We do not own nor claim any rights.