The grimly determined Jack Ambrose (finely played with gripping intensity by Cory Tucker) and his disabled brother Roland (a solid and likable performance by James Lowe) battle demons in humanoid form on Earth while searching for the man responsible for unleashing said demons. Writer/director Alberto G. Rodriguez smartly crafts a tight, involving, and surprising short that takes a deceptively simple premise and completely spins it on its ear; the story starts out one way and gradually turns out to be something altogether more than what it initially appears to be as the tricky narrative unfolds towards a truly startling and unexpected conclusion. Moreover, the easy, natural, and engaging chemistry between Lowe and Tucker really keeps the picture humming; their insult-laden rat-a-tat banter in particular is extremely funny and enjoyable. The tense and spooky atmosphere is well-sustained right up until the end. Mike Lutgen contributes a strong portrayal of the wily and elusive head demon Blaine. Christian Luna's sharp cinematography provides an effectively dark and shadowy look. With his painted face, surly demeanor, salty tongue, and gung-ho attitude, self-appointed servant of God anti-hero Jack makes for a decidedly ambivalent figure; you are never entirely sure whether you should be rooting for him or afraid of him. It's this latter uneasy element which in turn gives this short an extra potent and jolting edge. Well worth a watch for those who wish to see something different and challenging.
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