Madelines

I didn’t think I could be impressed with a time travel plot anymore as they wind up being paint-by-numbers. But Miller and Grant build their backyard time travel flick to epic heights. The genre-mashing is brilliant, with the chocolate of the science fiction dipping deep into the peanut butter of the dark comedy. And the humor is dark, dark, dark. The film goes heavy on the disturbing murder imagery, so it is definitely not for the kiddies. The production design is a mix of low-fi sci-fi crossed with high neon moments, which works well.

Grant, who has written and directed other films, does herself many favors by writing multiple great roles and lines for her role. It’s like Stallone writing Rocky as a clone of The Warriors, where Rocky has to make it through several gangs of Rockys to get to the gym. Grant does the bloody time warp farce justice by playing her roles completely straight. The distinctive differences between the Madelines are tangible, allowing Grant to show quite the range.

“…this micro-budget sci-fi sickie impresses repeatedly.”

Shen, at first, seems to be playing it too broad, pulling faces and mugging like he was in a daytime drama for 7-year-olds. However, I soon found his goofy tone a good balance for all the heinous acts of murder he has to commit. Riehle is a treat as always. You are bound to recognize him as he has over 400 acting credits. Putting such a widely seen character actor in the major supporting role was clever casting.

Madelines has a kick-a*s poster that really gets your hopes up for something special. Happily, Miller and Grant deliver exactly what is promised. While the seams may show at times, this micro-budget sci-fi sickie impresses repeatedly. It is a good indication as to how rich with talent the underground scene is becoming.

Madelines is a 2023 Award This! Indie Sci-Fi nominee.