Strange Factories is a curious and surreal movie directed by John Harrigan and released in 2013. It takes viewers on a journey to a mysterious and otherworldly place, where a group of storytellers gather to create tales of horror and intrigue. The film creates a unique and surreal atmosphere right from the start as it gives a glimpse into an eerie, isolated town where the storytellers come together. The viewer is introduced to the town's inhabitants, a mix of eccentric characters who seem to be stuck in a bygone era. They are not quite human, but not quite otherworldly either, existing in a state of limbo. They are bound together by their love of storytelling and their desire to create fantastic tales that will mesmerize their audience.
One of the protagonists of the movie is Ovid, a resident of the town who becomes involved in the storytelling process. He is a quiet and unassuming figure, yet he has a unique talent for weaving stories that captivate his listeners. Ovid collaborates with other storytellers, including a renowned writer who has a controversial past and a unique individual named the Story Collector, who gathers and catalogues the tales that the storytellers create.
However, the tales the storytellers create aren't merely tales. They are living, breathing entities that are created through a bizarre and sometimes terrifying process. Each tale is infused with magic, technology, and imagination, resulting in a concoction that blurs the line between reality and fiction.
As the movie progresses, it becomes clear that there is a darker hidden agenda behind the storytelling process. Ovid and his comrades begin to unravel the secrets of the town and discover that not everything is as it seems. The town's inhabitants are merely pawns in a higher power's game, and the storytellers must face a difficult decision that could have dire consequences.
The cinematography of Strange Factories is noteworthy for its ethereal beauty and its ability to create a sense of unease. The camera work is often surreal, with unusual angles and close-ups that make even the mundane seem otherworldly. The use of light and shadow are also essential elements in building an eerie atmosphere, and the movie's settings - abandoned factories, ancient forests, and empty streets - add to the unsettling ambience.
Another notable aspect of the movie is its soundtrack. The music is haunting, beautiful, and melancholic, creating a soundscape that is both beautiful and unsettling. The combination of music and cinematography is one of Strange Factories' greatest strengths and sets it apart from other horror movies.
In terms of acting, the performances in the movie are commendable, with Annalisa Astarita excelling in her portrayal of the Story Collector, who is both enigmatic and chilling. John Harrigan delivers a subtle and understated performance as Ovid, and Rachael Blyth is impressive in her role as the conflicted writer who is torn between her love for storytelling and her conscience.
The movie's themes are complex and nuanced, dealing with topics such as the power of storytelling, the nature of reality, and the ethics of creation. The storyline is intricate and multilayered, and while it might be confusing at times, it keeps the viewer engaged and guessing until the end. The movie's ending is unexpected and ambiguous, leaving plenty of room for interpretation and discussion.
In conclusion, Strange Factories is a movie that defies categorization. It is a horror movie, a fantasy movie, and a philosophical movie all in one. It is a strange and surreal journey that will appeal to those who appreciate unconventional storytelling and haunting imagery. Although it is not for everyone, those who have a taste for the unusual and the uncanny will find much to admire in this movie.
Strange Factories is a 2013 horror movie with a runtime of 2 hours and 12 minutes.
It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.
