A portal in the bathroom wall of Danni’s new apartment has a penchant for devouring shower curtains. But where do they go? And why? New friend, Tim seems determined to help her find out.
Although proceedings begin with what could be a nasty but corny creature feature, the story quickly flips things on you, and what you are really watching is a sci-fi mystery. Thanks to British mini-budget indie flicks such as Ben Hopkins’ The Nine Lives of Tomas Katz (2000), I have a soft spot for the weird and wonderful. Still, if you’re a fan of your Ghoulies and your Critters, you may experience the sweet pang of nostalgia when you catch sight of the little creatures that lurk beyond the portal.
The look of Danni’s apartment works well as it’ll put you in mind of that first shitty place you ever rented. Just a place to sleep, nothing more; a place where personality, joy and white paint go to die – and all you want to do is get the fuck out. It’s certainly a great setup for a feeling of uneasiness.
I felt the dynamic between Danni and Tim at times broke convention where the roles of masculine and feminine are concerned. While Tim is afraid of living his dreams, is readily willing to believe in the fantastical and makes an ultimate sacrifice for love – Danni is headstrong, makes rational decisions and seems to quash any feelings she may have for Tim.
LAST WORDS:
Despite the simplicity of this film, it manages to fill in its 74 minute running time nicely, but at the same time I can’t help thinking that it may be better served if it were condensed into a charming little short. Regardless, the two leads play well together and this oddball movie was a much-welcomed break from the discouragingly sub-par horror that has come out on DVD this year so far.