I'm hesitant to use strong language, but I can honestly say I’ve never encountered anything quite as unsettling and disturbing as Evan Marlowe’s “Abruptio,” a truly nightmarish creation. Experiencing this macabre horror film was upsetting, and it continues to linger in my thoughts days afterward. It feels entirely unique, and the way the dark narrative is presented using incredibly realistic puppets is an impressive feat that will likely shock you. The movie centers on Les Hackel (James Marsters), a 35-year-old man struggling through life. He holds a tedious job, recently ended a relationship, attends therapy sessions, and still lives with his disapproving parents, who seem to constantly criticize the choices he's made. To put it plainly, things aren’t going well for him. One day, Les discovers an explosive device has been placed in his neck. He is then forced to commit increasingly terrible crimes to survive while attempting to figure out who is controlling him and others around him. This horror film utilizes life-sized puppets within live-action environments. Yes, it’s all done with puppets. Marlowe has crafted a chilling, complete, and strange world populated by equally disturbing characters. The puppetry is incredibly detailed; you rapidly stop noticing that they aren't human actors. A talented group of voice performers (including Jordan Peele, Hana Mae Lee, Robert Englund, Christopher McDonald, and the late Sid Haig) perfectly complements the story’s tone. The film depicts a series of violent and gruesome acts. Don’t assume this is something lighthearted: it's full of psychopaths, bloody scenes, and unrelenting brutality. You might think you could distance yourself from all the violence because it’s performed by puppets, but some moments are so intense and upsetting that they still bother me. It’s pure nightmare fuel. This isn’t just another horror film, though. There's a significant amount of thematic depth to be found here, with many layers of meaning. It explores the idea of corporate control and society’s willingness to accept it. The story functions as a metaphor for how we are all being manipulated by those in power, becoming a willing force for unseen figures who pull the strings. It also examines America's mental health crisis, tells the story of a man struggling with confusion and longing for connection, and deals with themes of trauma, masculinity, and growing up. There’s so much to consider that I feel compelled to watch it again. The plot does become somewhat unfocused and odd as things progress, but the initial portion is truly exceptional. “Abruptio” represents a remarkably imaginative work of horror, bringing a welcome wave of originality to the genre.

Source on TMDB