12/11/20 - Anything For Jackson (2020) - 6+/7-/10
A rejuvenating original, spooky, and wisely done horror film which probably dwells near the top spot in my 2020 horror slot. The tale of an old couple’s efforts to resurrect their lost grandson was twisted but expertly believable. There was a legitimacy to the actors and their actions. There is nothing grossly overboard in their emotions or psychology; they felt pervasively human and ordinary. The machinations of the plot are logical and duly mundane. Their commonness was vitally important and impressive for bringing me into the story and not letting them, or their actions, stand out as audacious or incredulous.
The pacing and flow was focused and steady. The punctuations of the horriific and supernatural were well placed. Their use of jump scares was not minimal, but it was maximized to be effective and not gimmicky; it was the relentless terror of those moments that was accentuated, not their surprise.The design of those scares was also clever and potent. The frights were just right, something that has become a rarity in lots of horror films as of late.
I was genuinely into this film and greatly appreciating. There are components to this film and its story which are not delved into, but usually that is for their benefit. The true nature of the daughter or her resolution is a beneficial secret to keep, as was the distinct fate of the eponymous Jackson. Other films might have dwelled in those plot spaces, but this knew when to hold its tongue.
The time more might have sufficed is at the end, which I found to be its weakest moment, and is the unfortunate taste left on your tongue. There is such buildup that the traipsing mystery felt unfulfilling; an unfortunate letdown. There was also a subplot that culminates in the climax, but it does come slightly unbidden and undeveloped. There are pluses to that, but I might have liked a scene or two more to set that up.
Overall, this was an unexpected and much welcome gem. The script was solid, the casting & acting quite adroit, and the horror was directed with a strength that gives hope for the future. Seek this one out for it is worth it.
