I do enjoy the films of Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead. I like the way they play with time, horror and ideas. And this time, they also throw themselves into the mix, taking on roles in their own film. Written and shot during the COVID lockdown the pair cooked up a fun tale that once again ties into their larger cinematic universe, but because of restrictions, their cast is predominantly them and a couple of others.

Frequently funny, the film follows John Daniels (Moorhead) and Levi Danube (Benson) a pair of new friends who discover something very odd about an apartment John lives in, and the grounds on which Hollywood is built.

The film ends up being a bit of a pseudo-documentary mixed with a buddy comedy. There’s lots of fun to be had throughout, but as mentioned, it also ties into their larger universe. There’s a familiar flower, a statue from the cult in the Endless, the flying pattern of the birds.

It’s smart, fun, and for fans, it also helps lots of theories about what it all means, and how it all ties in with everything else that is going on in the shared universe.

Having seen all their films, I think I need to watch all of them in much closer proximity to one another to see if I can’t pick up more details and connections. Of all of their films so far, this one is obviously the funniest. Yes, the other films have comedic moments, but this one actually has some real laugh-out-loud moments.

There’s spooky stuff mixed in with all of the humour, and a number of WTF moments as the story reveals itself.

I find all of the Benson and Moorhead films engaging and entertaining. They play with lots of ideas and work within the constraints of their budget to deliver mind-bending stories… and I love that they are all connected.

The crystal and the fractal patterns, the city of Los Angeles, the strange moments, and sounds… it all works fantastically. I personally love the skull that is found. But if you aren’t a fan of their work, then this one may not be for you. I personally have enjoyed all their films, and can’t wait to see what they do next, and how their cinematic universe expands.

The pair are fairly solid on screen, and you can tell they have a real sense of chemistry and camaraderie with one another. All I can say is keep them coming.