’Do Not Watch’ Review – Devilishly Creative And Chaotically Clever

Synopsis: A cautionary tale of madness told through the lens of an unseen Editor, who has constructed this film that unveils the events surrounding the disappearance of a post-production crew and the growing darkness that drove them insane. A decades-spanning mystery is interwoven across three timelines: a present day documentary; several missing person cases; and scientific research footage from old VHS tapes.

Whether we want to believe it or not, darkness lies dormant within us all. It can manifest itself in many ways from petty annoyances to horrific newsworthy disasters. Now, if and when that darkness is triggered depends on the mental fortitude of the individual and occasionally, factors outside of their control. Unfortunately, once unleashed, the malignant nature of the darkness is often all-consuming and extremely contagious. On a positive note, there is usually an abundance of light and benevolence that permeates society. However, at this moment the cloud of darkness continues to disseminate rapidly and light is struggling to shine through. What will the outcome be?

“It must be stopped. It must be contained”

We never listen, do we? We can’t help but press the red button, pull the lever, click the link, pick up the jellyfish, and watch the forbidden video. Shot and directed by Justin Janowitz, Do Not Watch is not your typical found footage film. This cerebral cautionary tale is an adrenaline shot to the genre. It’s devilishly creative and chaotically clever. I foresee big studios copying the formula of this well-made indie project. Straying away from most of the creature comforts of the genre, this refreshing entry is sure to have you asking why more aren’t made in this fashion. From the perfectly interwoven 3-timeline story arc to the hauntingly disorienting editing, this film is a good time from start to finish.

Giving us this footage within footage within a movie delivers a meta vibe to an already creepy open. As the film progresses, you realize that this story is more than an attempt to elicit fear. As a production crew sets out to edit a new film they are releasing, they fail to heed the warnings right in their faces as darkness begins to consume everyone. It has a poignant message and societal viewpoint that is playing out as you read this. While the darkness can be interpreted differently, to me, all you have to do is read online discourse, the nature of our political climate, and human interaction to see the parallels. As each timeline is explored, the descent into madness becomes more intense, and outrunning it seems impossible. Firmly placing you in various perspectives, it asks whether or not you are susceptible to or can survive the all-consuming entity.

“Madness. Goddamn madness.

It may be called, Do Not Watch, but you will want to experience this. Unfortunately, the film doesn’t unfold in quite the unhinged manner that it could. Depending on how you interpret what is taking place, you may prefer that it’s more driven by story. However, it may have had the same effect if it was absolute carnage for the entirety of the runtime. The fact remains that this film feels unique and fun to watch with a crowd. Oh, and the last 20 minutes are extremely interesting. The cinematography works great with the story, enhancing some moments, and the atmosphere is a fantastic balance of urgency and confinement. As bodies are left in the path of darkness, the intensity rises until all that is left is you. Do Not Watch is sure to thrill fans of the found footage genre. Its rewatchability is medium.

Pacing & Pop

Ever intriguing, this film moves at the same pace as the darkness attempting to consume it. From beginning to end it’s a wild ride. What popped for me was the many metaphorical possibilities that darkness can be interpreted as. Also, the subliminal nature of the editing is as if we are experiencing exactly what the viewers of the footage are.

Characters & Chemistry

Starring: Alix Angelis, Ella Cannon, Catherine Corcoran, Ezekiel Ajeigbe, Adetokumboh M’Cormack, Madison Lawlor, Katie Lohmann, Sara Fletcher, David Ury, Jodie Bentley, Sam Boxleitner, Michael Deni, John Henry Richardson, Danny Mooney, Skyler Caleb, Garth Wynne-Jones, Brendan McCay, Greg Scali, Daniel Olsen

This is an exhilarating ensemble performance. I can’t say that one performance stole the show, but together, the cast delivered something dark and enjoyable. However, there is a certain charisma that Ezekiel Ajeigbe possesses that I’d like to see more of in the future.

Do Not Watch is set to make the festival round starting with the Unnamed Footage Festival in San Francisco on March 30, 2024. Stay safe and find your light.

Rated: NR Runtime: 1h 27m Director: Justin Janowitz Writer: Ryan Toyama Producers: J.P. Ouellette, Nico Falls, Dylan Matlock Co-Producer: William Thomas Executive Producers: Bo Colton, James Colton, Jonathan Boateng, Javier C. Ortiz, Graeme Laronge, Jasson Walker, Ryan Toyama, Skip Maugh Director of Photography: Justin Janowitz Composer: Jared Forman Editor: Tyler L. Cook Production Design: Leslie Gladney Costume Design: Chloée O’Hayon-Crosby