Reign Of Death ★★★☆☆

Review of 'Reign Of Death' which can be found here on YouTube.

Length: 05:34

Written & directed by Matthew Savage

Genre: Sci-Fi Noir

Date: 2009

Rating: ★★★☆☆

Logline: An on the loose murderer is apprehended by a cunning detective.

Here's an interesting attempt to blend the period specifics of the noir genre with the futuristic computer generated aspects of sci-fi. The combination works well and together creates a smooth modern update of the noir style, although not altogether original. The muted black and white tones are well shot, emphasising light and shadow in a clean visual manner. Static shots play up to that but equally the camera excels when following movement.

Starring the constantly dubbed "up and coming" Noel Clarke, whose performance is so-so given the melodramatic role. Watch for the laugh out loud electrocution at the end though. The statement driven dialogue is also evocative of the 40's/50's golden era but you may struggle to decipher Jimmy the robots lines through his metal-mikey voicebox. The plot has its ups and downs. Clarke's character has a clear shot on Jimmy tons of times but doesn't take them which is frustrating. There is however, a good twist in antagonist/protagonist role which makes a second viewing more palatable.

The VFX'S are at a high level and no doubt the monochrome colours helped with that. Animation is done well and Jimmy's movements are realistic and at the same time in-keeping with his robotic structure and capabilities. The camera quality also adds to the high production values and makes for a very cinematic piece. There is also the expected accompanying jazzy soundtrack which fits the tone and the trumpet playfully reflects the action on screen. Overall, film noir isn't really a favourite of mine and I'm not sure whether this is just a daft piss-take or a contemporary neo-noir attempt. This seems more like style over substance, and I prefer a bit of both.

Best Bit: The role reversal of the two characters.

Worst Bit: Can't make out some of the robots dialogue.

Final thought: Yeah, am pretty sure if you die taking a piss, your cock should be out on the closing shot.

Read a condensed review of this film on Twitter here.