Movie Reviews: STARRY EYES (2014) - Nightmarish Conjurings

Salutations my screechers, screamers, and scary dreamers,

Tonight’s tale of terror entitled “Starry Eyes” finds a fame seeking server conceding her character for a prominent part in a picture.

I must begin by praising this film’s technical aspects whether it be the score or the more practical effects as these are what initially drew me in and have since stayed lurking underneath my skin. Initially I was drawn to the orchestrations which sound like music box intonations adding a sense of childlike charm which is certain to disarm. To further lull us into security the cinematography is handled with such surety that it is hard not to feel completely engaged since each frame feels elegantly staged.

The sticking point was that they kept up the style while the subject matter grew more vile so we are shown the murkiness lurking beneath the good set against the backdrop of Hollywood. Given the notoriety of the setting when we get to the bloodletting the city itself takes on a personality much like our character’s fading morality. It is parallels like this that intensify the themes of those who would do anything to achieve their dreams and we are reminded that many things run on vice as they peel back the layers on what appears nice.

It is challenging to convincingly portray such a fall, but our lead actress really gives it her all creating a character we initially pity who becomes warped by the idea of being a star in the city. As she gives in to her temptation the executives who spurred her transformation give performances that are aloof and eerie which makes them come across as world weary. In contrast her friends are much less subdued often coming across as boisterous or rude, but a few of them invest their characters with heart that transcends their otherwise one note part.

Story/Concept: 2
Direction/Style: 2
Scares: 1
Atmosphere: 2
Rewatchability: 1
TOTAL: 8/10

In summation, those seeking a paranoid atmosphere will find a lot to like here from the performances to the soundtrack to the sense of style this one is sure to linger for quite a while.

Stick to the shadows my fine friends.