Review of 5th Passenger (2018) by Dick C — 16 Jul 2018

I signed up on IMDb to give my own two cents. I should state that my expectations of the film weren't high. I was very excited to support an independent effort from actors that I've loved, but I also know that independent films can also come out a little rough.

Thankfully, 5th Passenger overcomes what rough edges it may have with interesting ideas, cultivated into good story telling, and held together with a good cast and framing. Considering the film was done on a budget too small for its genre, it does seem to balance what down points it has.

At first, the memory recovery machine used seems a little gimmicky for a plot device, but offers some very interesting visuals and helps build a good amount of tension (as well as some breaks) throughout the film.

There are some moments on film where it feels like some sort of filter was applied to hide some green screen effects that were too apparent - these few spots are the only places I feel the movie suffers from anything visually.

There was a twist that I thought was apparent from early in the movie, but clever elements kept being thrown in that kept me guessing what was really going on.

Occasionally, the dialogue seems a little awkward and maybe even forced. This isn't necessarily a bad thing though, as it also fits with the natural and very real moments the characters have with each other. Life isn't filled with perfectly timed thunder for dramatic effect. The unsure hesitation and pauses were, in my opinion, the highlight of the acting. Such small details make the interactions so intimately real.

Near the climax of the movie, there are a couple of times when there are sudden occurrences, and the other characters seem to accept it without questioning. I know sometimes you need to have a quick pace, or need to have little reaction from some or all of the characters.

It's possible that the right camera angles and editing can accomplish this, but I have no education on film, so I wouldn't want to posture too much on the subject. Either way, it's a brief if albeit chaotic transition, that also adds to the film in its own way.

Overall, this is a solid independent film that was worth my money and more. I was absolutely thrilled that I could support artists I respect, and find a film I very much enjoyed. I've seen Big-budget movies that were worse in every aspect. This is a "small-time" movie, and did some amazing work on a small budget, I don't believe it deserves the harsh reviews it's been getting. I'd recommend this movie to any fan of sci-fi, horror, psychological thrillers, or anyone looking for an hour and a half of entertainment. A ride worth taking for any passenger.