Review of Choice

Being a true fan of independent films, I have been a major fan of Chris R. Notarile and his talented group of actors for quite some time.

Whatever themes Chris tackles in his films, be it horror or superhero fan films or his own amazing original work, I have always been entertained! Since mid 2011 I have noticed a bit of a change in Chris' work and it's for the better. The trailers for "Stand Off" and "American Lawless" hinted at more personal stories being told while retaining his signature action film sequences. These films required actors that were talented enough to portray the emotional depth of the characters.

That brings me to "Choice". We are introduced to a struggling actress (Kerri Miller) who is at the end of her emotional rope. Literally ready to end it all when she is visited by an apparition or manifestation that calls herself Choice (Mandy Evans) and she has to choose the direction that her life and legacy will take in a matter of moments.

Both women absolutely own their characters and flawlessly portray them. The best compliment I can give is that I didn't see Kerri and Mandy. I saw the Actress and Choice. You can feel despair at the start and then the weight of the decision the Actress must make. The cool indifference and subtle sarcasm of Choice is chilling right up until the Actress decides to live and she caringly says "good choice". Brilliant.

Chris shot the film in both color and black and white and gave the whole encounter with Choice a dreamlike quality that was perfect. The special effects and makeup accent the film, but never overshadow it. The beautiful song by Hypodive at the end is also notable.

I'm happy to report that with "Choice" Mr. Notarile has evolved as a filmmaker and proved that not only can he do justice to Snake Plissken, Freddy Krueger and The Dollman, but that he can produce dramatic work full of layers and emotion.

"Choice" is not a one time effort. See "Host", "Roses", "Spilt" and the aforementioned "American Lawless" for proof!