"Toxic Impulses" begins with a bang and keeps the viewer intrigued with a compelling plot, dramatic irony, and a great ensemble cast. Director Kyle Schadt has crafted a fun neo noir thriller and succeeds where others have failed. Kyle effectively utilizes voice overs throughout the film, and they work - they do not interfere with the story or the action. In addition, it is clear that Kyle provided clear direction to his cast as they all provide excellent performances. Kudos to Director of Photography Jordan Rennert - the lighting and shots in this film are excellent. Overall, everything works well in this film and it had me guessing until the unexpected climax.
40 Reviews
Trust Nobody...
jae-133718 February 2023
Warning: Spoilers
This movie has all the makings of a great modern day noir: a morally questionable protagonist; menacing villain; suspicious damsel in distress; exhilarating action sequences; twists and turns all around that keep you guessing! It plays with our expectations of the genre, at a certain point testing our faith and trust in the filmmakers to resolve what we want to see...
The female lead gives an amazing performance that reminds me of a partner in a bad romance or toxic relationship, something I hope not everyone can relate to but if you know, you know! This is one of those instances where you want to see justice served for all characters involved and 'Toxic Impulses' does not disappoint!
Trust Nobody...Especially the Girl Next Door!
The female lead gives an amazing performance that reminds me of a partner in a bad romance or toxic relationship, something I hope not everyone can relate to but if you know, you know! This is one of those instances where you want to see justice served for all characters involved and 'Toxic Impulses' does not disappoint!
Trust Nobody...Especially the Girl Next Door!
An interesting watch
jeff-3308512 March 2023
I have plenty of great things to say about this film. It was clear to me that the filmmakers made a movie that looked far more expensive than their actual budget.
I absolutely loved Olivia Buckle in this film - she shined in every scene she was in.
Indie films often have two problems - sound quality and poor lighting. Toxic Impulses conquered both of those problems. There was a scene right next to the ocean, and it is NOT easy to get good sound next to water with waves. And the lighting throughout....the gaffer deserves praise for this film.
Give it a watch. It's a fun trip. I enjoyed this one.
I absolutely loved Olivia Buckle in this film - she shined in every scene she was in.
Indie films often have two problems - sound quality and poor lighting. Toxic Impulses conquered both of those problems. There was a scene right next to the ocean, and it is NOT easy to get good sound next to water with waves. And the lighting throughout....the gaffer deserves praise for this film.
Give it a watch. It's a fun trip. I enjoyed this one.
A superior Neo noir thriller!
omarproductions-102758 January 2023
Toxic Impulses is a superior neo noir thriller. Top notch writing and direction by Kyle Schadtkeep the viewer captivated from beginning to end. The screenplay was very effective in evoking the frightening family dynamic that exists when one member has gone off the rails and into the world of crime and deception due to drug addiction. The acting is excellent - especially the performance of the lead actress. So are the cinematography, art direction, and musical score. And the graphics accompanying the opening credit sequence were very original - something you don't see often these days. An all around impressive, memorable job.
A predictable genre film.... until it isn't
RBIves-202-72535227 December 2022
Right off the bat you'll find this film has cinematography a few steps above the rest. Every scene is beautifully shot. Lots of great moments where glowing city streetlights far in the background set the tone for this steamy noir/bank heist mashup. It hits all the beats you'd expect from the genre: raspy narration, femme fatale, etc. But here's the twist: most of the reveals you know are inevitably coming bubble to the surface by midway, leaving you guessing where the story could possibly go next. From there the filmmakers are really in the driver's seat, and they are fully aware of the direction you THINK you're headed. Trust me when I say you'll be guessing who is going to make it out of this movie until the very end.
The musical score is also something that should get a shout out. It's tight, unique, and it's clearly been written to lift the big moments. I watch a lot of these low budget movies, and this once is definitely a cut above the rest when it comes to production quality. They really knew where to spend their money and hold on to your attention.
The musical score is also something that should get a shout out. It's tight, unique, and it's clearly been written to lift the big moments. I watch a lot of these low budget movies, and this once is definitely a cut above the rest when it comes to production quality. They really knew where to spend their money and hold on to your attention.
Moody Neo-Noir thriller
Movies_And_Frights3 April 2023
Reminiscent of the film Drive - TOXIC IMPULSES is a very stylish neo-noir thriller set in Los Angeles. The film is visually stunning, with plenty of saturated cityscape shots and shadowy night scenes. Story wise, it grips you right out of the gate and does a great job on keeping the foot on the gas
I enjoyed the use of narration in the film, it gave a true noir vibe without every feeling over the top. With twists you won't see coming and a layered and palpable score, this is a thriller that will get you excited. One scene in particular, involving a bank teller was absolutely gripping and a great example of how to ratchet up tension.
Really Really Solid!
sowden_jd31 December 2022
OK. You know when there is a James Bond Esq opening that you are in good hands! I have to say form the opening scene (I love a good punch in the face) through the awesome opening credits, the film does not let you down. There was a real "down to earth" feel about it. I thought the acting suited the story and I wont give anything away, but I really thought the plot worked. Also the shots, WOW. Some of the shots look beautiful and the aerial establishing are always a crowd pleaser. I was throughly impressed with the cinematography! If you are looking for a fun thriller for a weekend watch, check this out!
Worth the Watch!
mwcurran15 November 2023
Tense police thriller written and directed by Kyle Schadt. A disgraced ex-cop is enlisted to help protect a neighbor in need and ends up getting in over his head. This low budget indie is well worth the watch! I was impressed with the script and the cinematography as you will see this was shot on a low budget but todays filmmakers can make do with less and really deliver on quality without having to have millions of dollars in budget. While you won't be getting the latest Denzel Washington thriller with all the bells and whistles what you will get is a well-crafted and well made indie film that is well worth the watch.
This indie thriller will keep you guessing to the end!
Onedelorean-114 March 2023
This indie thriller will keep you guessing to the end! The filmmakers did an awesome job! The production values were quite high for a budget indie film. I was also very impressed with how well casted the film was. They were very believable! The story also kept me interested the entire time! Typically these indie films drag or are poorly paced but this one was not. Everything in this film just works.
I especially liked the use of voice overs in the film. I think it helped push the narative without shoving information down your thought.
Definitely worth your time. A big two thumbs up! Recommended!
I especially liked the use of voice overs in the film. I think it helped push the narative without shoving information down your thought.
Definitely worth your time. A big two thumbs up! Recommended!
Make way for a new Femme Fatale!
parrotpoet20 September 2023
"Toxic Impulses" revisits the noir genre with a modern sensibility, and while the story might lean on some classic tropes, it holds its own thanks to the atmospheric setting and earnest storytelling.
Yet, it's Olivia Buckle's performance as Zemira that truly elevates the film. Buckle masterfully balances vulnerability with guile, ensuring her character remains at the heart of the audience's investment. Her portrayal not only anchors the narrative but also signals a bright future for her in the cinematic world.
"Toxic Impulses" might not reinvent the wheel, but it's a commendable effort worth watching, especially for Buckle's standout role.
Yet, it's Olivia Buckle's performance as Zemira that truly elevates the film. Buckle masterfully balances vulnerability with guile, ensuring her character remains at the heart of the audience's investment. Her portrayal not only anchors the narrative but also signals a bright future for her in the cinematic world.
"Toxic Impulses" might not reinvent the wheel, but it's a commendable effort worth watching, especially for Buckle's standout role.
Pernicious Allure
mrcthedj8 June 2024
Toxic Impulses navigates the concrete sea of traffic and relentless sun in this volatile L. A. private eye thriller. A warning to any and all screenwriting professors: The film features VO narration, so you might want to sit this one out. That said, this one features all the private eye staples: a seductive femme fatale, night shots, and edge-lighting aplenty. Toxic Impulses features morally bankrupt characters in lust with fast money, but is not without a flicker of rising human compassion. Sara Elizabeth Ryan, and Helene Udy deliver standout performances.
This is one of those movies you'll want to watch more than once.
This is one of those movies you'll want to watch more than once.
Interesting watch!
adam-3215313 March 2023
Without giving away any spoilers whatsoever... This movie is a roller coaster in terms of what fulfilling expectations. For an indie film, it must be said that there are some seriously high quality shots littered throughout which demonstrate a lot of flare behind the camera. A few technical things could be improved upon such as consistency with the lighting, but it gives this film more of a cult charm to it than something that takes itself too seriously which I loved. Some great acting in there with the more intense scenes too. Overall the story kept my attention and wanting to find out what happens, with a good ending to boot!
Toxic Impulses
Extra-Artsy5 May 2023
Toxic Impulses is a story about choices and consequences with crime, deceit, murder, secret addictions, and dark quests for redemption all mixed into one bag and man, is it a full bag! There are a lot of different things going on in this story and if you blink you will miss it. It is well paced and keeps the viewer hooked right from the start. The voice overs were a nice touch as they helped to push the narrative without dumbing everything down. I just hate it when a movie goes to great lengths to explain something because they are afraid the audience won't get it. If you are looking for something to watch that is full of dark and dangerous thriller on the contemporary side then Toxic Impulses is right up your alley. I give it two thumbs up.
cool ride!
travisgrenke15 March 2023
Just finished the movie!
You'll be taken on a wild cool and adventurous ride on this one!
The acting and performances of the lead actors were all solid. I didn't know who to trust nor what to think would happen next in this movie. Many cool scenes and great cinematic score that absolutely went well with the pace and emotional impact moments of the scenes and story line. Some really creative shots and acting that all came together very nicely.
I love adventure and a good suspenseful story line. This movie gave me both in a highly dramatic way!
I'll be looking for the actors in other movies.
You'll be taken on a wild cool and adventurous ride on this one!
The acting and performances of the lead actors were all solid. I didn't know who to trust nor what to think would happen next in this movie. Many cool scenes and great cinematic score that absolutely went well with the pace and emotional impact moments of the scenes and story line. Some really creative shots and acting that all came together very nicely.
I love adventure and a good suspenseful story line. This movie gave me both in a highly dramatic way!
I'll be looking for the actors in other movies.
Contemporary Throwback Thriller
jerrymcgrathart27 February 2023
Toxic Impulses is a contemporary, dark and dangerous thriller. From the surprising opening credits, reminiscent of late 50's and 60's, haven't seen this throwback homage used before, great way to start this noir feature. Throughout this indie the story offers one twist after another, certainly what you expect to happen doesn't!
The leading characters are nicely flawed, still can't diagnose co-protagonist Zamira (actress Olivia Buckle), sometimes she seems psychotic, sometimes compulsive liar, always an addict-some great character dimension.
My favorite part was when Zamira went/had to see her daughter, excellent interactions with her former spouse, she seems to have a very surprising moment of clarity, knowing that her ex is by leaps and bounds the best parent for her child-she was able to ward off her Toxic Impulse in that scene.
The curious and kind neighbor was another highlight for me, a woman of age with depth and sincerity-decent to the core.
The film is beautifully shot, hope you to enjoy this one! JM.
The leading characters are nicely flawed, still can't diagnose co-protagonist Zamira (actress Olivia Buckle), sometimes she seems psychotic, sometimes compulsive liar, always an addict-some great character dimension.
My favorite part was when Zamira went/had to see her daughter, excellent interactions with her former spouse, she seems to have a very surprising moment of clarity, knowing that her ex is by leaps and bounds the best parent for her child-she was able to ward off her Toxic Impulse in that scene.
The curious and kind neighbor was another highlight for me, a woman of age with depth and sincerity-decent to the core.
The film is beautifully shot, hope you to enjoy this one! JM.
Great film especially for fans of noir films
bddqxczmk22 March 2024
There is something about the film noir genre than makes people fascinated. Maybe it is the danger or maybe it is becuase of the many twists and turns that permeate these types of stories.
Toxic Impulses is one of the good ones keeping the audiences guessing and always throwing curveballs along the way to stop us from getting complacent.
The heist scenes add a great amount of tension in the film and I believe it works well. A particular hightlight for me is one scene where they are trying to escape a heist in the car. The tension builds slowly and it is things like this which mean that this delightful little indie is worth your time.
Toxic Impulses is one of the good ones keeping the audiences guessing and always throwing curveballs along the way to stop us from getting complacent.
The heist scenes add a great amount of tension in the film and I believe it works well. A particular hightlight for me is one scene where they are trying to escape a heist in the car. The tension builds slowly and it is things like this which mean that this delightful little indie is worth your time.
A thriller that entertains!
nlight-363126 September 2023
This film was a lot of fun. The acting was solid by everyone across the board. The dynamic among the family worked perfectly. Benedikt Sebastian was the highlight performance for me. The best aspect of the film for me was the music. It was loud, especially during the bank robbery scenes, and made you feel very uneasy, which means the film did it's job for those moments. The cinematography was excellent. The more intense scenes utilized handheld shaky camera footage, which was very effective. I'd love to see what this director can do with a heist film on a bigger budget because he hits all the right cylinders on what makes these types of movies very intense.
Trust No One
podozzypro20 October 2023
Toxic Impulses is a neo-noir thriller about a former detective, Mosley, who is visited by a mysterious woman in need of his help. Mosely is hesitant at first, but soon gets sucked into the underbelly of the city where no one can be trusted.
All-in-all, for an indie film, it was well done. The locations are great and it has pretty good production value overall. The theme of neighborly love was a nice touch. However, what was lacking for me most was character motivation. Why did Mosely care enough to get involved? Why was the young woman doing what she was doing? What did she ultimately want? With those questions answered, I think the story could've been much stronger.
Toxic Impulses has a lot of twists and turns. If you like moody neo-noir thrillers then give this one a shot.
All-in-all, for an indie film, it was well done. The locations are great and it has pretty good production value overall. The theme of neighborly love was a nice touch. However, what was lacking for me most was character motivation. Why did Mosely care enough to get involved? Why was the young woman doing what she was doing? What did she ultimately want? With those questions answered, I think the story could've been much stronger.
Toxic Impulses has a lot of twists and turns. If you like moody neo-noir thrillers then give this one a shot.
Choices and Consequences
mettlesetdesigner6 January 2023
An ex-police detective meets a mysterious woman who claims she is being blackmailed and asks for his help. After initially hesitating, he starts investigating, unaware that she is also a bank robber. As time passes, he becomes entangled in a dark world of lies, crime, and danger. TOXIC IMPULSES is an edgy independent thriller with a very film noir feel to it although only a little bit of it is in black and white. Ultimately it is a story about choices and consequences with crime, deceit, murder, secret addictions, and dark quests for redemption. The story is well written with turns I was not expecting. If you are looking for a tale of betrayal and shifting moral lines, Toxic Impulses is right up your alley.
Excellent indie thriller
thesnarkascending26 May 2023
My hat is off to the team behind Toxic Impulses for their excellent work on this film. "Toxic Impulses" is well written and cast, beautifully shot and skillfully edited. Director Kyle Schadt has done a great job of creating a noir ambiance. The actors all turn in excellent performances as well. In addition, it is so nice to see that an indie thriller can be made on a budget and this should serve as an excellent guide to indie filmmakers who want to do the same. Kudos to the team for making a great product and keeping their audience on their toes into the bargain. Definitely recommend this film.
A Hardboiled LA Detective Thriller With Lots of Satisfying Twists
nathan-3071513 January 2023
Toxic Impulses is a tight, spare well-paced movie that pays homage to the rich LA private eye genre. It has all the key characters: Mosley (Benedikt Sebastian) a dissolute and world-weary ex-detective, a hardened, cynical killer, Boyd (Robert Akerman Moss) and a doomed Femme Fatale, Zamira (Olivia Buckle) who form a core triangle at the center of the story which swirls around the canyons and alleyways of downtown LA in a spiral of hard drugs, lethal violence, and armed robbery. I liked that director Kyle Schadt, who also wrote and edited it, left just enough room outside the plot for unexpected but welcome digressions in dialogue and action which added dimensionality and depth to the characters, including the supporting players, led by Mosley's jaded but good-hearted neighbor, Liz (Helene Udy), Zamira's stand-up ex James (Jay Habre), and, Keisha (Sara Elizabeth Ryan) a quirky bookseller who doesn't like to read. Watch this movie!
Great little film!
AKamp7923 February 2024
I watch a lot of indie films and this is right up there with the best of them.
The film follows an ex-cop who agrees to help a mysterious woman who knocks on his door one night, claiming that she is being blackmailed. Looking for something to do, he gets stuck in and begins investigating. We soon learn that this woman is also a bank robber and very quickly we descend into a dangerous criminal underworld.
Writer/Director Kyle Schadt does a great job of keeping the audience guessing with many twists and turns along the way. While it's not as polished as a Hollywood thriller, in terms of its production values, the story is key - and this is a good one!
This film is a step up from Schadt's previous film 'Silent Panic' and I'd love to see what he can do with a bigger budget. Definitely give this a look if you like a good crime thriller!
The film follows an ex-cop who agrees to help a mysterious woman who knocks on his door one night, claiming that she is being blackmailed. Looking for something to do, he gets stuck in and begins investigating. We soon learn that this woman is also a bank robber and very quickly we descend into a dangerous criminal underworld.
Writer/Director Kyle Schadt does a great job of keeping the audience guessing with many twists and turns along the way. While it's not as polished as a Hollywood thriller, in terms of its production values, the story is key - and this is a good one!
This film is a step up from Schadt's previous film 'Silent Panic' and I'd love to see what he can do with a bigger budget. Definitely give this a look if you like a good crime thriller!
Moral lines doing the cha-cha in Toxic Impulses
hildaarani20 January 2024
"Toxic Impulses" is a wild ride where an ex-cop crosses paths with a mysterious chick claiming she's caught up in some blackmail mess. Dude's hesitant at first, but then he dives into an investigation not knowing she's also a bank robber. As time ticks away, he gets sucked into this dark world of lies, crime, and danger. The story's written tight, throwing unexpected twists along the way. If you're on the lookout for a tale drenched in betrayal and moral lines doing the cha-cha, "Toxic Impulses" is your jam. Buckle up, fam, 'cause this one's gonna take you on a rollercoaster of secrets and consequences that you won't see coming.
A fun thriller
christopherfrint26 March 2024
This was certainly a unique thriller film, I especially enjoyed the opening credits which seemed like a nice nod to the James Bond opening credits. The actors were did a solid job throughout. I really enjoyed the music especially during the heist scenes. It was great to see the filmmakers do their best to make the most of a small budget for their action sequences, like the freeway car chase, very unique. I also thought the way it was shot was well done, making this feel so expansive. I had a good time overall with it and the ending was definitely memorable and was not something I would have predicted, well done!
Modern-Day Noir Thriller
SGarrett4961210 February 2024
A low-budget film noir/thriller set in modern-day Los Angeles. Our hero Peter Mosley (Benedikt Sebastian) falls for girl-next-door femme fatale Zemira (the talented Olivia Buckle). Mosley lacks the smarts to grasp that Zemira may be using him. The main plot revolves around a series of high-stakes bank heists that a team is executing. Our girl is caught in the middle of things. Elements of crime, deceit, murder, secret addictions, and the quest for redemption are sprinkled throughout. A lot of bad-guy thugs with guns. The tension/suspense is first-rate. Great music score. It's a stylized thriller where the lead guy isn't too smart -- but that's often a key element in a good noir film.
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