Clumsy, but atmospheric slow burn with a great lead performance

TrippingABlindMan

*Potential Spoilers*

The Shelter is the feature directing debut from John Fallon and stars Michael Paré of Eddie and the Cruisers fame. It tells the story of a troubled homeless vagrant named Thomas Jacob (Paré), who while wandering the streets of the city drinking alcohol one night, finds shelter in a beautiful empty house. Believing he has struck gold, he finds food, booze, television, and a nice a place to sleep for the night. But something else, something potentially supernatural (or is it religious?) is at work here, forcing Thomas to confront his inner demons in said house. This is a very low budget feature and it shows. Some of the acting is a little on the amateur side and some of the cinematography is a little on the cheap side, emphasis on some. The story is slightly confusing and the film is definitely a slow burn with an artsy slant- so if that's not your scene, you may not dig this film at all. And, to be frank, the opening sex scene initially made me chuckle and the ending did not do it for me for the most part... however credit must be given where it's due: Paré, pro that he is, turns in a genuinely excellent performance here, he was absolutely on point, same with the actress who played his wife (that "are you cheating on me?" scene, damn!). The film has plenty of atmosphere to burn and director John should be given credit for that, some nice mood lighting and shots, there were times I felt lost in the atmosphere which is a big plus. The plot direction was interesting as Thomas was a well developed character, and there were some great scenes spread through, my favorite being the fall from the window, into the water shot; very nice transition. Though the plot eventually didn't end on the right note IMO, and some of the low budget seeped through into the film (whether via acting, some of the VFX, etc.), at the end, I can still say the film showcases major potential for the director. Can't say I loved it, it was inconsistent to be fair... but it has something memorable to it, and as mentioned Paré carries the film well. It also has a short run time at 75 minutes, so it was a painless watch. Overall, you take pleasures where you can get them, and The Shelter has a few to offer. The director has a promising future ahead, and here's hoping Paré shows up in his next film as he was great. *PROS: Some excellent shots, moody atmosphere, interesting lead character, Michael Paré was terrific* CONS: Some awkwardly filmed scenes, a few of the other actors were not so great, disappointing ending, some clumsy dialogue mixed with awesome dialogue* OVERALL 6/10

score 6/10

TrippingABlindMan 14 January 2017

Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw3619685/