Corrupted innocence in Chronicle

In the tradition of Cloverfield, which was filmed from the point of view of one handheld video camera, Chronicle takes the concept to its extreme with several handheld cameras capturing the frightening odyssey into the realm of the supernatural. This empowers the audience voyeuristically to invade the intimate lives and worlds of the characters from different perspectives and, in a sense, become the outsider that is taken for the ride of a lifetime. Equally, it allows the audience to become part of an extraordinary and sometimes disturbing experience that skilfully blends humour, frivolous game playing and shocking horror.

Corrupted innocence

Dane De Haan is sensational as the introverted socially awkward teen who becomes possessed by a strange power; his corrupted innocence is well contrasted with the sincere compassion delivered by Australian newcomer Alex Russell as his cousin. In the minor roles you will surprised to find Capetonians Bo Petersen as the ailing mother and Adrian Collins as the neighbourhood thug.

Chronicle intensely investigates the weaknesses of humans and how their flaws can easily destroy every fibre of their humanity. To become extraordinary is a deadly and lethal force to be reckoned with, as the evil face of excess poisons reason and causes havoc.

An exceptional film

First-time writer-director Josh Trank and screenwriter Max Landis have crafted an exceptional film that suspends disbelief and challenges perceptions. If you ever had the belief that you could alter your reality and change the world, and that the realm of fantasy is a perfect fantasy world to escape into, Chronicle guarantees to exceed your expectations. You will believe the unbelievable and learn that fear is manifested in our ability to succumb easily to the mystery and allure of unseen forces and events that transcends realism. Chronicle is one of those matchless narrative built on secret revelations, so be careful to not know too much a about what happens. Just focus on the development of the story as it unfolds at a rapid pace and you are guaranteed an entertaining (although frightening) encounter of the supernatural kind.

Rating 5/5