Burning Shadow (2018)

Burning Shadow Poster

Charlie, a down-on-his-luck loner, crosses paths with a blind homeless man who is his exact double. Perplexed and intrigued by the discovery, Charlie invites the man into his life.

Burning Shadow Film Summary
"Burning Shadow" is a thought-evoking 2018 film, directed by Alexandre Nahon. It is an uncommon mix of noir, sci-fi, and existential philosophy, which, rather of providing apparent responses, prompts the viewers to face their own understanding of reality and self-perception.

The Plot
The movie primarily revolves around 2 characters, Charlie (Matthew Dennis Lewis) and Mickey (Russell Dennis Lewis). Charlie, who is recently out of work, finds himself following an older guy, Mickey, anywhere he goes. Mickey, a war veteran who seems experiencing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), shares haunting memories and pictures of what he experienced during the war. This relatively aimless pursuit reveals a much deeper, sinister, mysterious truth.

Charlie encounters shadows that can manipulate the real world and imitate individuals. As he endeavors deeper into the abyss of mystery, he starts questioning truth, the meaning of life, and ultimately, his presence.

Film's Concept and Themes
"Burning Shadow" mixes the components of classic L.A. noir with the surreal, blurring the line in between truth and impression. The duality present in Charlie's world represents the conflict between the outer and inner self, while the shadows embody the darkness within human souls, the extreme realities they sometimes try to escape.

The movie checks out styles of existential angst, facing one's past, the struggle for uniqueness, and the question of the existence of parallel universes. The concept of doppelgängers is likewise prevalent in the film, highlighting the concept of leading a double life and the duplicity of humanity.

It's a cinematic journey that encourages audiences to contemplate their own perceptions of reality, awareness, and morality. The movie provides an interesting mix of somber existentialism, science fiction, and psychological thrilliness that keeps the audience engaged and pondering long after the credits roll.

Performance and Cinematography
The efficiencies in the film are good. Matthew Dennis Lewis as Charlie is excellent, embodying the internal battle and existential crisis discreetly. His interaction with Mickey, depicted by his real-life twin brother Russell Dennis Lewis, brings life to the story.

The film's vintage look and feel, integrated with its shadowy and often severe visual structure, is an important part of its story, amplifying the cinematic experience. It successfully employs symbolic motifs and metaphysical horrors that provoke the audience to reflect on extensive existential concerns.

Conclusion
"Burning Shadow", though not a typical mainstream movie, is a distinct cinematic reward for those seeking a much deeper expedition of self and reality. It supplies a platform for audiences to consider over philosophical concerns and existentialism through an engaging and intricately woven story, and a mix of noir-like, vintage aesthetic appeals and futuristic components keep audiences immersed.

In spite of its somber and complex story, the film successfully provokes thoughts about the complicated nature of human presence and the blurred line between truth and impression. Overall, "Burning Shadow" offers a memorable trip for viewers, one that leaves them haunted and contemplating the exploration of existential themes and illusions of truth.

Top Cast

  • Matthew Dennis Lewis (small)
    Matthew Dennis Lewis
    Charlie
  • Roxane Mesquida (small)
    Roxane Mesquida
    Summer
  • Russell Dennis Lewis (small)
    Russell Dennis Lewis
    Big Joe
  • Roger Guenveur Smith (small)
    Roger Guenveur Smith
    Mr. Jones
  • Richard Edson (small)
    Richard Edson
    Ronald
  • Julie Delpy (small)
    Julie Delpy
    Mrs. Looper
  • Sal Landi (small)
    Sal Landi
    Stanley
  • Charlie Wadhams
    Mickey
  • Christopher Callen
    Mrs. Rattisburg
  • Seth Menachem
    Clerk
  • Brian Swinehart
    Dog Owner