As a reviewer, I’m always hoping that a film or short will deliver something new. Surprise me. Make me think outside the box. I wasn’t sure what to expect with the new sci-fi horror thriller BLACK WAKE but it looked bizarrely awesome. But did it deliver the goods?
BLACK WAKE was directed by Jeremiah Kipp as well as co-written by himself, Jerry Janda, and Carlos Keyes. The cast includes Nana Gouvea, Tom Sizemore, Eric Roberts, Jonny Beauchamp, Vincent Pastore, and more.
The official synopsis of BLACK WAKE is as follows: “Specialists gather in a top-secret facility to investigate a series of strange deaths on beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. One of the team’s scientists (Nana Gouvea) examines video evidence to uncover a possible parasitic explanation for the fatalities. But when a determined detective (Tom Sizemore) sends her the crazed writings of a mysterious homeless man (Jonny Beauchamp), the scientist slowly learns that the actual threat may be more dangerous — and far older — than anyone ever imagined. Can she convince her colleagues (led by Eric Roberts) of the true danger before an ancient force rises from the sea to bring madness and death to all of humanity?”
BLACK WAKE is definitely a slow-burn type of story. I found some of it hard to follow as it goes back in forth between what’s going on (and there’s a lot going on), but as the film went on it got more interesting. It was like trying to connect the dots or find the missing puzzle piece.
Some of the performances were a bit dull, but there were a few that stood out. Jonny Beauchamp plays insane perfectly. His character is creepy, and you can see the crazy in his eyes. Tom Sizemore and Eric Roberts also deliver solid performances that keep the audience interested.
The end was the best part to me. It made things a bit clearer as to what was truly going on and surprised me quite a bit. It left me hanging, though. I would have loved to see what happens right after we see the “big reveal.” Maybe there will be a part 2.
Overall, this film reminded me of a mix of a zombie outbreak, Men In Black, and a cult-like setting. I’ve never seen anything quite like it. I’d be interested in hearing the director’s inspiration behind the story and the characters. If you enjoy off-the-wall sci-fi films, BLACK WAKE may be right up your alley.
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