Creep

The Next Reel Film Podcast

“I’ve got a weird sense of humor, man.”
Pushing Boundaries in Found Footage Horror

Mark Duplass, known for his contributions to the mumblecore movement, teamed up with newcomer Patrick Brice to create a low-budget indie horror film that would challenge conventions and explore the unsettling nature of human interactions. With Duplass's experience in crafting authentic, character-driven stories and Brice's fresh perspective, they set out to push the boundaries of the found footage genre. Armed with a minimal crew, a largely improvised script, and a shared vision, they embarked on a journey that would result in the creation of Creep. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we return to our Found Footage series with a conversation about Brice’s 2014 film Creep.

Authenticity, Eccentricity, and Malevolence

In our discussion of Creep, we explore how the film navigates the spectrum between authenticity, eccentricity, and malevolence. We examine Mark Duplass' portrayal of Joseph, a character who initially comes across as genuine and relatable but gradually reveals a darker, more unsettling side. The found footage aesthetic enhances the sense of unease, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. Additionally, we delve into the movie's ability to subvert audience expectations and keep viewers on edge throughout.

Other Points of Discussion

• The effective use of a minimalist cast and setting
• The possible and somewhat weak attempt at creating a twist
• The chemistry between Mark Duplass and Patrick Brice
• The film's exploration of the darker aspects of human nature
• The pacing issues in the latter half of the movie

Creeping into the Horror Genre

Creep showcases the potential of low-budget, independent filmmaking to create a memorable and unsettling horror experience. Mark Duplass' expertise in crafting authentic characters, combined with Patrick Brice's fresh perspective, results in a film that pushes the boundaries of the found footage genre. Despite some pacing issues, Creep's exploration of the darker aspects of human nature and its ability to keep the audience guessing make it a worthwhile addition to the horror genre. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!

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