Dark Mirrorr: A Movie Review

Director: Pablo Proenza.

Writers: Pablo Proenza, and Matthew Reynolds.

An independent film from writer and director Pablo Proenza "Dark Mirror," is a light horror outing from first time production company Cut Glass Productions. Released in a limited fashion the film now finds itself with IFC Films Video on Demand feature. Offering the deconstruction of housewife Deborah (Lisa Vidal) at the hands of vengeful spirits "Dark Mirror," gently slaps the viewership to attention with a psychological journey through paranoid delusion and altered perspectives.

Conflicted housewife and aspiring careerist Deborah entertains thoughts of hidden doorways to further dimensions while emotionally breaking down in front of her young son and husband. Looking through glass skews the central character's look on reality while a mythos involving trapped spirits is offered with half-confidence. Adding murder, and suicide with psychological twists the reality is left to the viewer. Is Deborah paranoid or the victim of spiritual possession?

An IFC video on demand entry "Dark Mirror," delivers a hypnotic scenario from writer Matthew Reynolds to heighten interest and despite the sparseness of shock and fear the film still provides value for a one time watch. First time horror outing from Cut Glass productions "Dark Mirror," does not copy the original 1946 film and instead draws a sinister character as antagonist Eleanor, a trapped and bitter spirit, manipulates those in her spiritual prison. Bypassing the shallow blood and gore "Dark Mirror," brings tension and mystery that can create for a lighter mood than what might have been intended.

The acting from father (David Chisum), son (Joshua Pelegrin) and one dimensional Tammy (Christine Lakin) are on par with a quality performance with the fleshing out of Deborah's character only partially provided. Adding Grace (Lupe Ontiveros) as Deborah's mother allows some further characterizations and story developments, but the limited ghost story allows for minimal interpretation. Chisum performs with humour and care while Vidal juxtaposes position from protagonist to antagonist.

Clever in story and changing the viewer's perspective with optical illusions both confuses and excites while the quickly moving story comes to a final character reveal making for a worthwhile time. Available since May 6th on IFC cable the film is a light scare and might be most enjoyable for those new to the genre.

6.5 Glass Skulls out of 10.

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