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Genres
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CastDestiny Dawn OsmialowskiMichael J. Keeney
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DirectorAlexander T. Hwang
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Release Date2016
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Runtime6 hr
Perpetual Night, released in 2016, is a psychological thriller directed by Aaron Burns and starring Destiny Dawn Osmialowski, Michael J. Keeney, and Tammy Barr. The movie tells the story of a woman named Harmony (Osmialowski) who is suffering from insomnia and depression after the sudden death of her mother. As she struggles to cope with her loss, she becomes increasingly isolated and begins to experience strange and unsettling hallucinations.
Harmony's life takes a turn for the worse when she loses her job and her boyfriend, and is forced to move back in with her estranged father (Keeney) in their family home. The house is old and eerie, and seems to be haunted by the memories of Harmony's mother. As Harmony's mental state deteriorates, she becomes more and more convinced that the house is cursed and that something sinister is lurking in the shadows.
The film is a slow burn that builds tension gradually, with a number of unsettling set-pieces that will leave audiences on edge. The performances are strong, with Osmialowski delivering a nuanced and emotionally raw portrayal of a woman on the brink of madness. Keeney is also impressive as her troubled and distant father, while Tammy Barr brings a touch of warmth and humanity to the role of Harmony's best friend.
The cinematography is a particular highlight, with director Aaron Burns using clever camera angles and lighting to create a sense of unease and disorientation. The use of sound is also effective, with a haunting score combining with eerie sound effects to create an overall sense of dread.
While the film is undeniably creepy, there are moments of humor and humanity that prevent it from becoming too overwhelming. The relationship between Harmony and her best friend feels genuine and touching, and provides a welcome respite from the darkness that permeates the rest of the film.
Overall, Perpetual Night is a well-crafted and effective thriller that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. The film is not without its flaws - some of the scares feel a little contrived, and the ending may leave some viewers feeling unsatisfied - but it is certainly worth watching for fans of the genre. The performances are strong, the cinematography is impressive, and the overall sense of unease is sure to linger long after the credits roll.