Color Out of Space (2019) - Classic horror film trademarks brought back to life in a refreshing way - 9/10 (27/02/20)

Based upon a famous story by American horror author H. P. Lovecraft, Color Out of Space is the first full length movie directed by South African filmmaker Richard Stanley since mystery thriller Dust Devil twenty-seven years earlier. This is supposed to be the first movie in a trilogy of films based upon Lovecraft's writings. This experimental horror film has already gained an underground cult following and there are numerous reasons why any horror movie enthusiast should watch this outstanding movie.

First of all, the mysterious plot takes its time to unleash its creepy vibes and gets increasingly intense leading to a memorable finale. The film doesn't need lazy jump scares or gore elements but convinces with gloomy atmosphere and witty storytelling alone.

Secondly, the visual special effects are absolutely outstanding and are truly otherworldly which suits the science-fiction horror theme of the story. This might actually be one of the most visually appealing horror movies ever made.

Thirdly, the settings are perfectly chosen from the remote camp in the forest over the seemingly beautiful stable and farm to the gorgeous architecture of the family home.

Fourthly, the acting performances are second to none. Nicolas Cage convinces as caring family father who slowly but surely goes insane. Joely Richardson plays his physically sick but mentally ambitious wife. Brendan Meyer delivers the goods as neglected son who hangs around with a strange hermit and starts consuming drugs. Madeleine Arthur is the charismatic family daughter who is interested in the occult. Julian Hilliard plays the youngest son who is withdrawn and only interacts with the family dog. Even the side characters are very convincing but the five lead actors and actresses have particularly outstanding chemistry.

Fifthly, the plot itself needs to be pointed out. It tells the story of a meteor that crashes in the family's front yard and gradually modifies the animals, landscapes and even the family members in abominable and mysterious ways. Telling you anything else would spoil the outstanding movie that might be best enjoyed if you're not even familiar with Lovecraft's original story yet. The movie might however inspire you to read the fascinating story afterwards.

In conclusion, horror movie enthusiasts should definitely watch Color Out of Space that can be considered one of the very best horror films in recent memory. It's refreshingly different from other contemporary horror movies that rely on shaky cameras, jump scares and lots of gore. This horror movie is old-fashioned without being boring, limited or predictable at all. It recalls classic horror movies like The Shining and deserves more than its underground cult status. The upcoming two Lovecraft adaptations by Richard Stanley can't come soon enough. On a closing side note, you should listen to the song Color Out of Space by Japanese heavy metal veterans Ningen-Isu who managed to adapt the fascinating story into a gloomy masterpiece of about six and a half minutes.