Freelance, 2025.
Directed by John Balazs, this film features Nicole Pastor, Jordan Fraser-Trumble, Stephen Degenaro, Jasper Bagg, and Hannah Brooke.
SYNOPSIS
In this eerie tale, a struggling video editor named Katie takes on a high-paying but suspicious job editing disturbing films. As she delves deeper into the work, she starts to see haunting visions of the people in the footage.
Independent horror films are evolving. Big names like A24 and Neon are bringing fresh ideas to the table. However, many low-budget indie films often rely on tired themes or well-known characters. Fortunately, some filmmakers, like John Balazs, are pushing the envelope with original stories. Freelance stands out as an intriguing addition to the genre.
Nicole Pastor plays Katie, a freelance video editor who is barely making ends meet. She finds occasional gigs cutting adult films, which leads to challenges in finding more mainstream editing work. Her financial struggles and personal relationships are relatable, adding a layer of realism to her character. When she receives a mysterious editing job, unease begins to creep in, hinting at darker themes.
At 110 minutes, Balazs takes his time to set the stage. He skillfully crafts Katie’s story, capturing her struggles before increasing the tension as she digs into her new job. The dialogue feels natural, and the cast fits their roles perfectly, enhancing the film’s authenticity.
Balazs builds suspense effectively, leading to a thrilling climax. His commitment to storytelling over typical indie tropes is commendable. The sound design, cinematography, and haunting score all contribute to the film’s unsettling atmosphere, keeping viewers on edge.
Casting Nicole Pastor was a brilliant choice. Her performance blends dry humor with depth, showcasing Katie’s emotional struggles. As the narrative darkens, Pastor’s portrayal becomes even more engaging, showcasing her range as an actress.
If you enjoy films like Censor and Berberian Sound Studio, you’ll find much to appreciate in Freelance. This movie is more than just another indie horror flick; it represents the potential for quality storytelling at a lower budget. It’s worth seeking out and experiencing its chilling journey.
Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★
Tom Jolliffe
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freelance,Hannah Brooke,Jasper Bagg,John Balazs,Jordan Fraser-Trumble,Mike Gerbino,Nicole Pastor,Stephen Degenaro
