Sometimes it's best to AWAIT FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS (2018) Full review
- Jimmy Ray
- Dec 27, 2018
- 2 min read
After a somewhat dysfunctional family reunites they wake up to find the entire house surrounded by a strange black substance. Is it an act of terrorism? An alien incarnation? A trigger to ignite their own paranoia? Well one thing is for sure, it is a bang up premise for a sci-fi horror film unlike many you've seen and owing much to Rod Serling's epic Twilight Zone. In fact I was very much reminded of the TZ episode, THE MONSTERS ARE DUE ON MAPLE STREET.
Yet despite some similarities Await further instructions takes on a crude, crazy life of it's own. Amid trying to decide what they are up against, the TV suddenly flashes the cryptic words, "await further instructions" followed by a series of crazy demands and situations. How far will they go to uncover the truth and will murder and mayhem follow? It is truly a treat to find out and you will be glued to the screen trying to solve the dilemma.
Unfortunately as with many great ideas, there are flaws. Despicable characters aside, there are a few plot and dialogue gaffs and honestly the ending sort of falls apart under it's own weight. But really that is a testament to the strength of the film. With so much good stuff going on, was there really an ending that could match the rest of the proceedings? Probably not.
The cast performs well including class action by Neerja Naik and Grant Masters. We have to believe the lies and deceits this family harbors and the cast makes sure they don't miss a beat. Director Johnny Kevorkian (The Disappeared) shows a masterful hand in keeping the suspense turned up to ten, and the film quality and production matches the spooky sci-fi material.
All in all, despite some rocky moments, a few inconsistencies, and a rather lackluster conclusion, AFI is a wild ride through uncharted territory with a cool sci-fi, twilight zone edge that will entertain you to the fullest. Check it out!
4/5
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