ARQ (2016)

CinemaSerf

5.0

Mar 28, 2022

This is quite possibly the slowest burn of a film I have ever seen. It is reminiscent of a video game that you used to play: initially you don't get past the end of level one; then you progress slowly but surely through the game learning from your mistakes, though frequently having to start again from scratch.... Well this is one of them, with Robbie Amell and Rachael Taylor caught in a time loop that gradually reveals a story of betrayal and duplicity as they try to protect a gizmo that might just be the answer to humanity's energy problems from "Torus", a company that wants it too. Unfortuna…

ARQ is a neat sci-fi flick that's enjoyable enough to keep you from hitting the fast-forward button. The directing by Tony Elliott is straightforward and effective, keeping the action tight and focused without getting bogged down in unnecessary distractions. Cinematography-wise, the film does well considering its confined setting, creating just enough claustrophobic tension to maintain interest. The visuals aren't mind-blowing, but they serve the story perfectly, giving it a gritty, futuristic vibe without leaning too heavily on special effects. The acting is pretty solid, especially Robbie…