Gut

Tom's life begins to spiral out of control when his buddy Dan brings home a suspicious snuff tape that he found online. Will the two be able to break away from their sick obsessions before they are tempted to turn a dark fantasy into reality? So begins GUT, a tightly-drawn psychological thriller that overcomes its minuscule budget with an intriguing pair of characters and constant feelings of dread and paranoia. Director Elias takes his time in introducing Tom and Dan in order to build upon their friendship in a real-world setting. Only then does he begin chip away at their masks of sanity, slowly revealing their twisted desires and inability to relate with those around them. While the snuff film becomes the point of their fixation, the universal themes of obsession and moral corruption could easily be interchanged for any other vices without losing their impact. The shockingly realistic special effects only add an intensified element of horror on top of the growing terror and suspense. Jason Vail and Nicholas Wilder competently carry out their leading roles, which account for much of the film's success. Chad Bernhard's depressing score also works to darken the mood throughout. GUT is a cut above the rest on the Independent film scene.