Following its premiere at South by Southwest 2024, post-apocalyptic action/horror Arcadian is distributed by RLJE Films. Fifteen years after the apocalypse, Paul (Nicolas Cage) lives with his sons Joseph (Jaeden Martell) and Thomas (Maxwell Jenkins) on their farm. Amongst other things, they have to make sure that their home is fortified, so that the mysterious, vicious creatures that hunt at night do not break in. But in the wake of Paul sustaining life-threatening injuries, Joseph and Thomas come to realise that the creatures are becoming a lot more resourceful than they had thought possible.
PROS
- Director Benjamin Brewer and screenwriter Michael Nilon wisely take a less-is-more approach to creating a post-apocalyptic world, and in so doing play well to fear of the unknown.
- Three solid co-leads in Nicolas Cage, Jaeden Martell and Maxwell Jenkins, with the former playing Paul with a steely determination, and the latter two realising the brothers’ complicated dynamic well.
- Excellent practical effects bring the mysterious creatures to bold life, made more memorable by some striking details that are shocking upon first being seen.
CONS
- Several wooden performances from the supporting cast, which make more noticeable how thinly-drawn their characters are – some really fulfil clichés of the post-apocalyptic narrative.
- The final act is somewhat unfocused and becomes increasingly frenetic, ultimately feeling out of place with the more slow-burn first two acts.
- As the former point hints at, the narrative is constrained by the runtime (92 minutes, including credits), resulting in some pacing issues, including a rushed final act.
VERDICT: 6/10
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