Director: Steven Vasquez
Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Horror
Runtime: 70 minutes
Language: English
IMDb Rating: Not specified
Plot: A Quartet of Erotic and Supernatural Tales
ErOddity(s) is an anthology film comprising four short stories that delve into themes of eroticism intertwined with supernatural elements:
“The Way to a Man’s Heart”: An abused lover, Thomas, exacts revenge from beyond the grave, blending themes of love and vengeance
“Forever Mine”: A young man, Aaron, seeks an enduring love, leading him down a path where desire and reality blur.
“A Mind of Their Own”: Aaron discovers a mysterious cassette tape that brings his fantasies to life, resulting in unforeseen consequences.
“Unsolved Christmas”: Zack, an insatiable voyeur, receives a camera for Christmas, leading him into a holiday tale of woe.
Visual Style: Balancing Eroticism with Horror
Director Steven Vasquez employs a visual narrative that oscillates between intimate eroticism and elements of horror. The cinematography often utilizes close-up shots to capture the vulnerability and intensity of the characters’ experiences. However, the film’s low-budget nature is evident in certain production aspects, which may detract from the overall immersion.
Cast: Portraying Complex Characters
Brandon Rife (Aaron/Thomas): Takes on dual roles, portraying characters entangled in love and supernatural occurrences.
Addison Graham (Rod/Kevin): Embodies characters that navigate the complexities of relationships and hidden desires.
Edward Gutierrez (Zack/Marcus Grant): Depicts individuals whose voyeuristic tendencies lead them into unforeseen predicaments.
Cory Tyndall (Host/Christian): Serves as the film’s host, guiding viewers through the anthology with a blend of charm and enigma.
The ensemble cast delivers performances that aim to balance the film’s erotic and supernatural themes, though the effectiveness varies across segments.
Themes: Exploring Desire, Identity, and the Supernatural
ErOddity(s) ventures into the exploration of human desires, the quest for identity, and the intersection of eroticism with supernatural elements. Each story serves as a vignette that examines how suppressed emotions and fantasies can manifest in unexpected and sometimes eerie ways. The film attempts to challenge conventional narratives by intertwining LGBTQ+ themes with horror and fantasy.
Reception: Divergent Views on Execution
The film has elicited mixed reactions from audiences and critics alike. Some viewers appreciate its ambitious fusion of genres and its focus on LGBTQ+ narratives within the horror and fantasy realms. However, others critique its execution, citing issues with pacing, dialogue, and production quality. Notably, a review from “Michael Doherty’s Good Things About Bad Movies” points out inconsistencies in storytelling and character development.
The Critic’s Verdict
ErOddity(s) presents a bold attempt to merge eroticism with supernatural storytelling, offering a unique perspective within the anthology format. While its ambition is commendable, the film’s execution may not resonate with all viewers. It stands as a niche piece that will appeal to audiences interested in explorations of LGBTQ+ themes within the horror and fantasy genres.
Rating: 5/10
An intriguing concept that delivers unevenly, catering to a specific audience.
Pair With
Angels with Tethered Wings (2014) for another exploration of LGBTQ+ themes within supernatural narratives, or Kissing Darkness (2014) for a blend of horror and homoerotic elements.
Cultural Footprint
By intertwining LGBTQ+ narratives with elements of horror and fantasy, ErOddity(s) contributes to the diversification of genre storytelling, offering representation and exploring themes often overlooked in mainstream cinema.
Addition
In addition to its thematic exploration of desire and the supernatural, ErOddity(s) incorporates a notable musical element that enhances its narrative. The film features original songs by Trevor Page, including the track “Dancing on the Edge,” which adds a dynamic layer to the storytelling. These musical pieces serve to underscore the emotional and psychological states of the characters, effectively bridging scenes and amplifying the film’s atmospheric tension. Outvoices
Furthermore, the film’s production under Babaloo Studios reflects a commitment to exploring niche genres that blend eroticism with elements of horror and fantasy. This approach aligns with director Steven Vasquez’s vision of creating narratives that challenge conventional boundaries and offer viewers a unique cinematic experience. The collaboration between the cast and crew under this production house has resulted in a film that, despite its low budget, strives to deliver thought-provoking content within its genre.