Ground Report

  
Valerio Mazzarella brings a Hitchcock-inspired horror comedy to festival screens. The film has already won awards for Best Short and Best Director at the Independent Horror Movie Awards and has become an Official Selection of multiple film festivals around the world, including famous Los Angeles Independent Film Festival, Cordoba International Film Festival, OIFF Turin Cinefest, London Golden Scout IFF and more.

When there is a killer in a movie, we usually call it a slasher horror; when it involves human mind, it is a psychological thriller; and when there is a perfect blend of psychological suspense, gothic horror, melancholic romance and gentle humor, we say it’s an outstanding film of its genre.

Red Velvet hands down has all of it. It does not put an emphasis on the killing but on the madness and absurdity of the characters and situations. Thus, it produces a distinct viewer experience and brings tension. The experience is enhanced through the atmospheric, by its very nature, gothic component: the twisted romance, the vintage outfits of Jenny and Rebecca, the house decorations, colors.

The prevailing colors are red and yellow. Red is associated with blood and passion, while yellow symbolizes madness and mental instability.

This movie is filled with amazing actors who truly make the film. Klemen Novak does a great job portraying a psychologically hurt person, who is trying to fight his own demons. Klemen Novak builds an ambiguous character, demonstrating his biggest fears and weaknesses. Elena Kornilova gives an outstanding performance creating a very complicated and unique character. Despite her seemingly self-conceited and sycophantic attitude the viewer is compelled by her vulnerability. Or she is hiding behind it? Elena Kornilova’s intense acting work creates the prerequisites of the cathartic ending of the film. Jean-Paul Barton brings in more comedy and suspense. He is a blind cellist invited to play at the dinner party, but you can only guess if they invited the blind musician on purpose.

Thus, the cast creates a perfect blend of psychological suspense and comedy.

The Red Velvet is exciting, dark and funny all at the same time. Watch it and you won’t be disappointed.