Time Lapse (NR)

Chances are you’ve not heard of “Time Lapse,” a 2014 indie sci-fi thriller crafted by filmmakers Bradley D. King and BP Cooper. The movie borrows its plot – a camera that takes photographs of future events – from a famous episode of “The Twilight Zone,” and is crafted in a way that pays obvious homage to the Master of Suspense, Alfred Hitchcock, in both its look and compelling uncertainty.

Set in and around a single apartment unit, “Time Lapse” focuses on three roommates; Callie, her boyfriend Finn, and their friend Jasper. Each character is fleshed out nicely in the succinct 104 minute run time. Finn (Matt O’Leary) is a struggling artist who loves Callie but has grown complacent in both his paintings and their relationship. Jasper (George Finn) is the hotheaded recreational drug user who gambles on dog races. Callie (Danielle Panabaker) is the glue that holds the trio together, caring for Finn and hiding potential feelings for Jasper. Struggling for money as many people do, the group discover a camera that takes photographs of events 24 hours into the future, and ultimately must decide how to best use the device.

Matt O’Leary and George Finn were unfamiliar faces to me when the movie began, but both prove to be competent and capable in a variety of ensuing situations. Calmness, distress, hostility – all emotions are carved out throughout the movie, and neither actor disappoints. Danielle Panabaker, whom I first saw in the Hallmark cult classic “The Nearlyweds” has had a more voluminous career to date, and as Callie, does a great job fitting in with the two male co-stars while bringing her own pizzazz to the production.

What makes “Time Lapse” a very good movie to watch is the production itself. The DVD commentary featuring Bradley D. King and BP Cooper offers great insight on to the limitations of the budget, and how a variety of effects and corner-cutting methods were chosen and amplified for maximum value. The antiquated looking colors of the film, mixed with intentional anachronistic props and a subtle though effective score make it shine.

And while the plot is of the sci-fi variety, don’t be fooled. Yes there is a time element with the camera, but the movie holds no thrills when it gets underway, with a thuggish bookie (Jason Spisak) and the ultimate dilemma of what would you do if you found such a device weighing in throughout. It’s the type of film that can get more value out of its second viewing.

“Time Lapse” is the kind of movie I was hoping to dislike, but a great premise (thank you Mr. Serling) solid acting, and visually appealing filmmaking prevent it from being anything other than a good fun flick.