Cade: The Tortured Crossing (2023) Poster

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6/10
Breen has hit his stride, but takes on too much for one filmmaker
asherstuhlman4 September 2023
In short: A wealthy benefactor funds a hospital to study genome editing that is plagued by black-market medicine theft and poor maintenance.

Neil Breen makes many decisions in this film that, if they were part of a more complete and coherent vision, would be bold and truly represent ambitious B-movie filmmaking.

Aesthetically: The entire movie is shot in green screen, over stock photos. Establishing shots are also stock footage. This is really exciting to me; it represents a really interesting way to do a film on a budget and nobody else would dare to do a film that way.

Narratively: The first 20 minutes of this movie has a lot going on, and it honestly made me wonder if Breen had learned from his previous films. He's certainly learned a few editing tricks. But as the film continues, it's clear that Breen still hasn't figured out how to write a plot with a beginning, middle, and end; scenes happen in seemingly random order and repeat information.

And as usual for Breen, characters speak vaguely without specific details or characterization. This is especially frustrating because it feels like this film, of all his post-Fateful Findings films, really has a clear and interesting premise.

Ultimately I came out of this film really wanting to see Breen direct another writer's work, or another writer direct a Breen screenplay. Both the central narrative idea and the directorial style have interesting things to say, but they both need some external contribution to really make them click.
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7/10
Neil getting better is a bad thing?
gacsogergely26 August 2023
I overrated this by the general eye, it's more close to maybe a 5/10, if you come with a normal mind.

The film is a proper sequel to Twisted Pair, at least by characters - the CEO- and housewife-elimination is not emphacised that much -, has a strong start (maybe 20 minutes, I'm just eyeballing though), and an action-packed finale (yes, it's not good action, but action nontheless, and some things are well-paced in it), but the middle-portion is just dull, repetitive, and an editor's nightmare with characters dying but still living, people kidnapped form the Asylum to be brought to the Asylum... Continuity is also out of the window, Ed Wood's Plan 9-style. You have been warned.

And while the whole thing looks like an FMV-game, and the cgi degenrates almost to Amasing Bulk levels, at least the story is easy to follow.

And that's a serious problem, because the story is paper-thin and detail-less. Them doing the experimental experiments on the experimental subjects was previously covered by the weird stuff: moving skulls, baby-doll-heads, fairies, tigers - but as Neil got better, and made more films, we could deciphere the symbolism (I told tiger symbolises women, so our group had no WTF-reaction at that scene), and the broken pieces got less broken, revealing a very basic level story. And when two-third of your movie is stepping in place, that becomes boring.

There were some other stuff, like how out-of-character was the tram hitting Cade, or how Birdemic-like was that at times the audio simply was not there (Neil never did such mistake before), but I still recommend this as his "best", most accessible film (especialy if you are ok to sit through the prequel too), but I can't imagine the next film being a new hit at new hights.
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3/10
Awful but I'm really glad I watched it
dirvingman-621369 August 2023
Cade: The Tortured Crossing is the latest film from everyone's favorite cult movie director, Neil Breen. It's a sequel to another of his films, but I went in without seeing the first movie and still had a good time.

It's all around an awful movie, but it's also highly entertaining. I went to an actual theater showing of it, and I treasure the experience of cracking up and groaning to this movie with at least 100 other bad movie lovers. The dialog is stilted, the acting is stiff, the shots always linger too long, the script repeats itself so many times, and there's at least 7 fake-out endings that will have you begging and then cheering when the film finally does end. It broke my brain, but in a fun way. A very high laughs-per-minute rate as far as bad movies go. Watch it with a big crowd of fellow cult movie fanatics.
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10/10
it broke new ground
beardsworthy2 March 2023
It's not every day I write a review.

"Cade: The Tortured Crossing" is a film that defies easy categorization. It is a work of bold, uncompromising vision, and one that will challenge and provoke audiences in equal measure. Director and lead actor Neil Breen has crafted a film that is both deeply personal and yet speaks to universal truths about the human condition.

Breen's performance as Cade is nothing short of extraordinary. He brings a raw intensity and vulnerability to the role, capturing every emotion with a depth and nuance that is truly remarkable. His direction is equally impressive, as he creates a cinematic world that is at once beautiful and haunting, with a sense of mystery and danger lurking around every corner.

But what truly sets "Cade: The Tortured Crossing" apart is its willingness to grapple with difficult, complex themes. The film tackles issues of identity, trauma, and the nature of reality itself in a way that is both thought-provoking and deeply moving. It is a film that demands your attention and rewards it in spades.

The supporting cast is equally impressive, with standout performances from Sarah Parker as Cade's love interest and Jack Thompson as his mentor. The film's score is haunting and beautiful, perfectly complementing the visuals and performances to create a truly immersive experience.

In the end, "Cade: The Tortured Crossing" is a film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled. It is a testament to the power of independent cinema, and a reminder of why we go to the movies in the first place. With its stunning visuals, powerhouse performances, and fearless storytelling, this is a film that deserves a perfect score of 10 out of 10 stars. Don't miss it.
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1/10
One of the worst "movies" if you can call it a movie
s_simov21 March 2024
If you watch his "restrospective" you hear him, repeating himself as always 10000 times, that he always want to improve and up with every next movie. You see nothing of that sort here. While the first 2 movies you can excuse for being terrible due to lack of experience, but this is 6th movie.

This movie has terrible script, it seems like written by a 5 years old. Or worse. It's flat, it has bad dialogues full of repetition and single sentences. 0/10 No flow, no cinsistency, no nothing.

Acting - his acting has not improved since his 2nd movie, wooden and stiff as always. 0/10 Some of the other actors are bad too, few have potential but they ruin that potential in participating in such production.

SGI - he again performed worse than before. He uses much more cgi than before but it's as bad as it can be. 5th grader could do much better work than this. 0/10

So, yet again he is the allpowerful and almighty being that saves everything and everyone. Someone should just drink their medication instead i guess.

I am usually all down for bs bizzare joke fan movies, as long as they fully know they make joke movie not serious stuff. Here we have nothing of that sort.

Yet another movie i dont recommend , and a director that should either hire a writer, or just stop alltogether. Movie is unwatchable. The worst one out yet.

P. S all these 8-10 ratings we see around are so fake boosting the movie too much. This movie should be above "The Room" which is like a masterpiece in comparison.
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10/10
Why can't I rate it higher than 10?
thenewunfungames9 March 2023
I didn't think there would ever be a movie to top the.1997.seminal masterpiece Booty Call with Jamie Foxx and Tommy Davidson, but it has finally happened.

This movie has everything. Giant chairs, 3 second looped fighting clips, dialogue, and even acting. What more could you want?

I can't imagine how long Neil spent doing location scouting on shutterstock, but it was certainly worth the time. The scenery is amazing. I've never seen JPEGs seem so alive!

The script is so complex. I didn't have any idea what was going on, but that's just because I'm a moron compared to the Breenius that wrote it.
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1/10
This Man Needs to be Stop. Please.
m-prezioso24 February 2024
Ok, where do I start.

To begin with, the lack of talent of this monumentally delusional fella is unparalleled. People might say 'The Room' is the worst movie ever, and it probably is, though I do beg to differ. In my humble opinion that would be the case had not Neil Breen ever existed. Sadly though, he did.

I have seen all of his so-called movies. They all are undeniably horrible; non existing writing & cinematography, delusional characters, Mr Breen himself that can only do good even when he's on various killing sprees, wooden acting (especially on his part,) lack of facial expressions (times-two on his part), the list goes on.

And, after having carefully 'considered' his pedigree, I must say that 'Cade: The tortured Crossing' reaches - by a long shot - the peak of senile stupidity.

Neil Green is a strange animal, even stranger than the white are-you-kidding-me-what-is-this-CGI tiger present in this mega turkey. I mean, each movie he makes, things get worst. He seems not to be able to understand anything on moviemaking, wrapped in his (I'd guess) heavily self medicated self delusion.

I cannot get past the childish attitude this untalented fella projects on the screen. I cannot get past the moment he saw a... "Hey, look! A green screen! OMG now I can make a whole movie disregarding (even more than before) perspective, storytelling, acting. I gotta run though, gotta use as many pictures as possible from my ShutterStock free trial.

A Romanian Castle? Perfect!

A dilapidated building? Right on!

The Austrian Alps? Fantastic!

Whatever? Even better!

Who cares!! Now I will be able to do any nonsensical no-sense anytime I want. Tell you what, from now on call me Neil Green." Ok, all jokes aside he clearly must have some kind of issues, and I am saying that because no functioning person can misuse a brain the way he does.

I need to add something else. I have never reviewed any of his stuff, this time I had to. Especially after having noticed the scam he's pulling off here on the IMDB database. The scores this master-crap is receiving (10s after 10s) reflect a troubling state of affairs. Clearly, the desire to inflate ratings means that among this man's numerous negative qualities a new one, perhaps the worst, is emerging: deception.

Enough now. Let's just end it by saying I wouldn't wish my worst enemy watching this pile of crap.

Please Neil Breen, please stop this insanity. Yes, you have a Ferrari, and yes you are and forever will be the good one, we got it. We finally did. So now your work's done. Please, disappear. Please.
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10/10
Neil Breen's gradual rise as a director
owengrinn17 February 2023
"Cade: The Tortured Crossing" is yet another masterpiece by the talented director Neil Breen. This movie tells the story of a superhuman hacker named Cade who recruits a mental asylum to help him with a world revolution. The film's plot is compelling and original, and it keeps the audience on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

The action scenes in "Cade: The Tortured Crossing" are simply outstanding. Breen has clearly improved his skills in this area since his last film, and the result is breathtaking. The fights are intense and thrilling, with special effects that are both realistic and awe-inspiring.

But what really sets this movie apart is the character development of Cade. Breen has done an amazing job of creating a complex and multidimensional protagonist who audiences can't help but root for. In contrast to his earlier movies, where the main characters were often one-dimensional and hard to connect with, Cade is a fully fleshed-out character with a rich backstory and relatable struggles.

Overall, "Cade: The Tortured Crossing" is a must-see for fans of Neil Breen and anyone who enjoys thought-provoking action movies. Breen's latest film is a tour de force of storytelling, action, and character development that will leave audiences wanting more.
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2/10
Pretty bad for a Neil Breen film
Leparsdon31 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
I spent an hour into this movie having no idea what was happening. There is no plot to speak of, which is par for the course for a Breen movie, but this was exceptionally bad. 100% of this movie is short in front of a green screen, with the cast badly edited into stock footage. This is fine for Breen if it is used sparingly, but here is was taken to new heights that just highlighted how bad the editing was for this. Breen also fights a white tiger for some reason, and a different tiger, I think, transforms into a woman for some reason. This plot is something about a mental hospital and gene testing by his 'twin brother' Cale, but none of it, I mean NONE comes together in a coherent way. Prepare to spend the entirety of this movie confused and baffled at how nonsensical this is, and that is keeping Breen's other movies in mind.
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10/10
Once in a generation a movie comes along that blows your socks off!
jschafernak2 March 2023
The movie is Cade: The Tortured Crossing. But the only one who is tortured is me, for living this long without seeing this movie until now.

Neil Breen has already proven himself to be one of the greatest directors of all time long before he made Cade: The Tortured Crossing (2023).

But now, he's cemented himself as a legend of filmmaking with great hair and the acting chops needed to get the job done.

My only complaint is that there weren't enough phones being thrown around recklessly in this one.

I enjoyed the film, Cade: The Tortured Crossing from beginning to end. It's thought provoking, well acted and a total thrill ride.
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1/10
What am I missing?
shawnsaunders-6892311 August 2023
I guess the CGI is good. But the script and acting was horrible. I guess that is why the theater was laughing? I saw zero humor in this waste of digital dust and fell asleep in the movie. And was subsequently kicked out because the theater is a bar and you apparently cannot sleep in a bar.

I'm any event, the movie was a waste of time. I would say money, but I have a movie pass and it cost nothing. The people giving this tragedy of a film accolades are most certainly not within the sweet spot of people who enjoy movies. More so like to toot a horn full of, well, I won't say....

I need to submit 16 more characters.....
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10/10
A film? Perhaps. Holy scripture? Most certainly
jaiman_stone4 March 2023
Cade: The Tortured Crossing is a once in a millennium film. It is about one man's struggle to bring truth peace and justice to his new empire. Cade is the ultimate hero, he takes the poorest, and those that suffer the most in society, and turns them into living weapons, to strike down those that would harm the innocent, the vulnerable, and the downtrodden.

The vengeance that Cade and his force of righteous superheroes brings upon the evil men and women of the world, is unlike anything you've ever seen.

Do not miss this film. It is the film of a millennium. 600 years from now, in virtual reality, film school, they will teach this movie as a perfect example of the human condition, and those that are able to rise above their circumstances and conquer all that is before them.

Cade: The Tortured Crossing is a masterpiece.
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10/10
He's done it... Again!!
marcelklein883 March 2023
Finally another chapter of the Breen Saga has arrived. This movie is just the right composition of Breenness. It has just the right elements from the Citizen Kane style of 'Double Down' coupled with elements of Neil Breens Vertigoesque 'Fateful Findings'.

Although we do not get to see his ballsack in this one, we still get a sense of how mighty and powerful Breen is as both a film maker as well as a human being in general.

Still I would advise you to watch his other masterpieces first. Some people prefer the precise professionality of his later works over the light naive boldness of his early kino, but let future generations decide on this debate.

10/10 Broken Laptops easily.
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10/10
Brilliant
Adamanthe10 March 2023
Another brilliant work from an uncorrupt mind! Only a man with a pair of whatchmacallits as twisted as this can produce such masterful work. The special effects are sublime and captivating. The story speaks of one's innermost turmoil. The pair of twins known as Cade and Cale. One's an evil genius and the other is a pale stale vegetable. The two brothers cross path again. If you haven't watched the first movie featuring the twisted twins, then I suggest you watch it before and after watching this movie. The two have superpowers that they had inherited through some genetic memory from their ancestor "Altair In La Ahad"
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10/10
A master's best piece
marcouxmam9 March 2023
The mind of Neil Breen is , in better word, thought provoking. The movie is amazing, the cast, superbly directed by Neil Breen. Not only did he wrote, produced and directed this, he also starred in it. A self-made man who speaks for the blue collar workers, doesn't hesitate to take hard stance agaisnt authority. Neil Breen is literally the best actor in his movies and I wouldn't see anybody replacing him. Please Hollywood, finance his movies to make his message reach everybody, including the corrupt politicians and businissment.

Neil Breen is the filmaker with the greatest consistency in modern cinema. This man is Lynch on steroids.
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10/10
Neil Breen has outdone himself again
axeavier3 March 2023
This is masterpiece and a half, we're lucky to live in such a time where one could actually watch a Breen film compared to those that lived 60 years ago.

The writing in this film really spoke to me on a deeper level than much of what came out in 2023, let alone 2022 and it shows given the film's positive reception.

The cinematography is out of this world with how well everything had been shot and the superb graphics.

There are downsides to this film however. I found the the font used for the title card and credits to be quite curious and perhaps a tad of an odd choice.

The actors were excellent but more work could be done with their clothing choices.

It really has been an honor to see this film.
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10/10
Spielberg,Lucas , tarantino ,Scorsese ...they are nothing compared to the mighty Neil breen
therealpeterchambers8 March 2023
Where to start ..this movie is a masterpiece of cinema, full of green screen goodness ...if it doesn't clean up at the Oscars ( or Neil doing a part time job as a cleaner ) then there's something wrong with the world ...I can only hope this is the 2nd part of a cade trilogy ...if there's any weakness in the movie it's a lack of tuna and laptop destruction...oh and a much younger love interest , that aside it's a movie that will leave you wondering what you've done with your life ..it's deep on so many levels , it's got everything..I'd recommend a few drinks first tho to help you get your head around it ...miss it at your peril...a movie for the ages.
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10/10
Yet another hit!
jordanraines11 March 2023
Cade: The Tourchered Crossing is yet another amazing film by Neil Breen that truly made me rethink everything. It's amazingly well crafted and flows smoothly. Making it easy to follow like his other films. Truly an inspired modern day Socrates conveying his infinite knowledge onto us mortals for one brief moment. A Meer feature length film to have a glimpse into the mind of a genius. And the special effects this go around is extraordinary. Like watching a Renaissance painter with each stroke of their brush painting their magnum opus in front of my very eyes. In my opinion this is the best one yet and I'm ready for the rest to come.
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10/10
This film may be his best yet!
conesyou5 June 2023
Using words to try and convey the experience that is a Neil Breen movie is quite like trying to explain the intricacies of Pablo Picasso's works to a toddler. Yet, I am going to try my best to do that here and now.

Neil Breen films do not follow the traditional structure or rules of cinematography that most other films follow, in fact, and such established ideas of what a film "should be" are simply disregarded in favor of whatever techniques he believes will best portray the stories in his mind. His use of greenscreen is overwhelming, the pace is best described as cinematic whiplash, the acting is like watching bloodthirsty and sadistic predators trying to mimic human emotions to pretend they are prey. His films are structured more like human dreams, lucid and surreal, spinning off in wild and unexpected directions in a rhythmless fashion. It's like trying to experience past, present and future simultaneously.

This is beyond us mere mortals. We are not supposed to look upon the face of God lest we go insane.
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10/10
A life changing experience.
lhammersley25 February 2024
There are a few moments in life that are indelibly etched on our psyche, when we hold our new born child for the first time, our first love, the death of a parent, so many times, but watching Cade for the first time far surpasses all of these moments.

I haven't stopped crying, laughing or projectile vomiting since watching this classic, though to say it's a 'classic' is such an understatement, this film will make you wonder about your life choices, so what if you're a Doctor, Teacher or even a God, when compared with Neil Breen you are nothing, you and me have failed at the game of life and he has won everything, in times to come people will not believe men such as him lived amongst us.
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10/10
Truly Exhilarating
renny37911 March 2024
Prepare to be swept away on an exhilarating journey of the mind and spirit with "Cade: The Tortured Crossing," a film that transcends the boundaries of conventional cinema and plunges headfirst into the realm of the extraordinary. Directed by the visionary genius Neil Breen, this cinematic marvel defies categorization, leaving you spellbound and utterly captivated from start to finish.

Breen, who also stars in the film, delivers a tour de force performance that is nothing short of mesmerizing. His portrayal of Cade, a tortured soul grappling with existential questions and facing insurmountable challenges, is raw, compelling, and imbued with a haunting authenticity that resonates long after the credits roll. With each impassioned line delivery and piercing gaze, Breen draws viewers into the depths of Cade's psyche, inviting them to share in his triumphs, his anguish, and his unwavering quest for redemption.

"Cade: The Tortured Crossing" is more than just a showcase for Breen's unparalleled talent - it is a triumph of storytelling, cinematography, and imagination. From its breathtaking cinematography to its hauntingly beautiful score, every aspect of the film is crafted with meticulous care and attention to detail, resulting in a cinematic experience that is as visually stunning as it is emotionally resonant.

In conclusion, "Cade: The Tortured Crossing" is a cinematic masterpiece of the highest order. A

transcendent work of art that defies easy categorization and demands to be experienced firsthand. With its gripping story, unforgettable performances, and stunning visuals, this is a film that will leave you breathless, exhilarated, and profoundly moved. Simply put, it is a must-see for anyone who has ever dared to dream of cinema's boundless potential.
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10/10
Masterpiece
terryhaynes-103218 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
He's done it again. Neil has created a masterpiece. This film is beyond perfect. Puts the rest of Hollywood to shame, they can learn a few things. The acting from the cast is wonderful and you can really feel the depth in all the emotions, we need to get this nominated for an Oscar.

I won't spoil the film. But I will mention the standout moments for me. When we see Cade getting knocked over by a tram, I shouted no he can't die, it can't end like this. Thank god, he got up and was fine. For a second my heart stopped. The scene with Cade fighting a white tiger is shocking, you feel every punch and kick. You can clearly see that Neil and upped his fighting skills and obviously trained really hard. The dance scene wow just wow enough said. Cade training his team to fight is very uplifting, the advice he gave them was outstanding and makes me want to join them. The end fighting scene was excellent, very powerful and I was cheering for the good guys . It was brilliant, put the matrix to shame.

The most shocking moment is the end when the twins meet up. I won't go into details but it made me cry.

I must give a special mention to all the special effects, green screen used. It pure genius, technically gifted. I have no words to describe how great it was.

Overall this film is the best of 2023 and 2024. The story telling was out of this world, every scene made you think and you find yourself having a emotional connection to everyone. The film made perfect sense, it flows really well and you definitely won't be bored. Instead it will give you hope, a sense of internal belief, hope for world peace and positive energy.

Neil Breen you are a wonderful director, storyteller and actor.
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10/10
Thank you.
thefilmdevotee26 June 2023
I saw Cade at the first festival screening I have ever been to, invited by a friend who works there - and who apparently had it out for me. He didn't even tell me what it was, just that "Many films that make it big start off here and this one is lifting eyebrows in the industry." Needless to say I fairly quickly realized this wasn't the next Citizen Kane. It was something entirely different, something I wasn't prepared for. At first I thought it was some kind of an arthouse film, meant to provoke. But the dialogue and plot proved me wrong.

At some point towards the end I realized why this was such a new experience. Because it's the first time I have ever seen a director make me use my brain constantly by allowing himself to turn his own off - for the duration of the film. Not once did the events on screen help me understand what was going on. Thank you.
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10/10
WOW!!
magiciancolin26 March 2023
Mr. Breen has made a masterpiece. This story has never been done before. I am so glad that I sat through this masterpiece as it made me think about a lot. The elements of cgi used was amazing and definitely gives other big companies a run for their money. Not a cent was miss used to make this film. I would suggest watching Twisted Twins before watching this film so you understand the story of this universe of characters. I would love to see Neil continue this franchise of films as I feel there is still stories to be told. I can't stop watching in amazement. Thats how good this film is. I also need to talk about the acting. All I can say is WOW!
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10/10
Breen Is The Real Deal
TheRealZam19 May 2023
I saw the premiere of this film at the HRIFF & it was an incredible experience. Breen continues to blossom as a filmmaker. Three months later, I am still thinking about it.

Describing this film is hard to do beyond saying that it is the Breeniest of Breen films. Some might categorize it as "so bad it's good", but that really doesn't quite fit. Yes, his films are bad on a technical level (and on almost every level for that matter), but there's something about them that really transcends the SBIG genre. In this film, his unique take on SBIG has truly reached its Zenith and I think his art may finally be ready for a larger audience.

Various filmmakers and production houses have reacted differently to either intentionally making bad films or learning their films are bad. The most common reaction to learning you made a bad movie is like that of Fragasso, anger and sadness. Others sell out and attempt to repeat their success, like a Wiseau or Nguyen. Then there is the Asylum model where they attempt to make bad movies .

Breen is at a whole other level and with this movie, his secret sauce should really be made clear to audiences. Breen is to SBIG as Tarantino is to violence and gore. He knows he has an extremely limited budget and simply cannot make a movie that's traditionally good, so he just rolls with it. When he cannot afford someone more experienced to fulfill a particular role, he pulls a Thanos and does it himself. Whether that means he is the star, the DP, or the caterer; it doesn't matter. In this particular film, he really manages to weave this into his film with a mastery that should make Quinten as happy as the day he filmed the shoe scene in Inglorious Basterds (or at least crack a smile).

The master class of SBIG that is a Breen film is really only the most obvious trait that sets his films apart. No film would be complete without having something to say. He generally tells a varied version of a similar story. This is not "The Hero With a Thousand Faces", but a more like "The Thousand Messiahs With 1 Face". But this story is only what you see on the surface. Every film's take on this story, the SBIG elements, and the various twists and turns combine shed a light into the depths of a strange and beautiful world hidden just beneath the surface. Breen delightfully invites his audience to dip their toes into the deep and imagine what shapes the shadows dancing on the currents form. It is in this aspect that his films seem the most Lynchian. In this film, Breen takes us deep into these waters and pulls us up just before we suffocate from marveling at the beauty of their madness. It is absolutely masterful.

The final, and most important, element to Breen's films is the heart. Breen really puts his heart and soul into these movies. This is most evident in what he gets right, and the obvious time and effort it takes for HIM to that almost entirely on his own. Sometimes it's in the lighting, sometimes it's in the cinematography, sometimes it's the audio, sometimes it's the big new element that he was able to add to the film. When you watch a Breen film, you always know that he, like the characters he portrays, pours everything he can into his movies.

When I saw this film, I laughed, I cried, I danced, I clapped, I gave multiple standing ovations. I can't wait to see it again.

Every time I revisit his films, I discover something new.
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