Synthesizers have meant more to horror than arguably any other musical instrument. None have used them quite like South by Southwest World Premiere Dead Mail, however. Jasper (Tomas Boykin, 2022’s The Munsters) is a dead letter investigator whose job is to locate the senders of lost mail. When he comes into possession of a bloody note it leads to a twisting mystery that he may not be able to solve.
The opening moments introduce a tension that never goes away. Dead Mail is shot with a grainy look that fits its 1980s setting and provides a grindhouse feel. It never feels overstuffed and brings style to its otherwise barebones story. As things progress and more is uncovered, the anxiety increases. It is an overall heavy atmosphere.
The music will also stand out as synth is an important part of the soundtrack and the story. Like any great movie, the score amplifies the mood. The songs range from fun dancy numbers to more tense affairs. But it is the surprising focus on the music (and musical instruments) that drive the story forward. It is a shocking twist that is never quite fully explained, but does provide enough insight to get audiences fully invested.
Dead Mail is filled with surprises. Initially, it seems like it is going to be a mystery, before turning into a thriller about obsession. The final act returns to unraveling clues, but there is a different atmosphere due the revelations over the course of the film. The first two acts flow smoothly – it will shock most people watching – but the third act feels rushed. Pacing is an overall issue as the middle does run a little long. Still, it is an original and stylish watch.
SXSW takes place March 8 – March 16. The full lineup can be found HERE
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