"Carl"

Last night, I had the privilege of attending the world premiere of the Afterlight Pictures feature film,"Carl", written and directed by Greg Daniel.  "Carl" has been described as "a psychological horror/thriller depicting a backwoods family with a dark secret" and it delivered all of that, plus more. 

I was immediately impressed with the creative eye of the cinematographers; the attention to detail in each camera shot set the mood for the film.  I think that, when we hear that a movie is an independent film, we all lower our expectations a bit, but I have good news!  You can keep your expectations right where they would be as if you were walking into the local Regal Cinemas to see the season's hottest horror flick.  "Carl" delivers. 

The performances by each and every one of the actors was top notch.  I've recently become acquainted with the film's star, Matt Cornwell, and was simultaneously impressed and disturbed by his performance as Carl.  He captured the audience and left us feeling both sorry for him and against him.  Carl's mother, played by the gifted Peg Thon, thoroughly disgusted me in all the ways she was meant to.  The films other stars, Robert Pralgo and Cheri Christian, playing the married couple who take a vacation that changes their lives forever, gave the audience something to hope for, pushing us to the edge of our seats to see what their fate would be.  I was especially bowled over by Cheri's performance and what a meaty role she not only played, but conquered.  Kudos to Cheri for her versatility. 

It was so fun to be in the room with the director, cast and crew as they saw their film on the big screen for the first time.  The screening was followed by a brief Q&A in the theatre and a signing in the lobby.  There was so much buzz in the lobby of the theatre as everyone was discussing their own interpretation of the film and gushing on how well done "Carl" was.  Always a good sign.

---

I'll choose to remain vague as possible as far as the storyline goes, and allow you to see the film for yourself.  "Carl" will be released on Amazon and iTunes tomorrow, May 1st, and I recommend you check it out.  Support local films.  In the meantime, watch the official trailer and become a fan of the movie on Facebook. 

CLICK HERE "Carl" on Facebook