“Glorious,” a film released in 2022, has been a topic of discussion for its unconventional storytelling and unique cinematic approach. Directed by Rebekah McKendry, this film takes the audience on a surreal journey within the confines of a single location – a remote rest stop bathroom. The premise is as bizarre as it is intriguing: a man named Wes, played by Ryan Kwanten, finds himself conversing with a mysterious voice from an adjacent stall, voiced by J.K. Simmons, who goes by the name Ghat.
The film’s narrative is a blend of dark comedy and horror, a combination that has garnered mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. Some have praised the movie for its originality and the performances of the lead actors, especially the voice acting of J.K. Simmons, whose rich vocal presence adds depth to the unseen character of Ghat. Ryan Kwanten’s portrayal of Wes has been noted for its emotional range, as he navigates through the character’s volatile and needy nature while confined to a limited space.
The script, co-written by David Ian McKendry, Joshua Hull, and Todd Rigney, has been described as both weird and witty. It plays with the audience’s expectations and keeps them guessing about the true nature of the voice in the next stall. Is it a real person, a hallucination, or something more diabolical? This uncertainty is one of the film’s strengths, as it maintains suspense and intrigue throughout its relatively short runtime.
However, some critics argue that the film’s execution does not always live up to its imaginative concept. The story, which unfolds almost entirely in one location, has been said to feel stretched thin over its feature length. There are suggestions that the narrative might have been more impactful as a short film or an episode of an anthology series.
Despite these criticisms, “Glorious” has been recognized for its thought-provoking themes and its ability to utilize a small set and cast effectively. The film has been described as a “tense little chamber film” that manages to convey grand ideas and cosmic horror without feeling claustrophobic. It’s a testament to the filmmakers’ creativity and the power of storytelling that transcends the limitations of budget and location.
In the Nutshell
“Glorious” is a film that may not cater to everyone’s tastes, but it certainly leaves an impression. It’s a bold experiment in genre filmmaking that challenges the norms and offers a unique experience to those willing to embrace its peculiar narrative. Whether you find it a genre treat or a stretched-out concept, “Glorious” is a film that deserves attention for its daring approach to cinema. [3 out of 5].
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Genre: Monster | Mystery
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