Abacus

Director - J.M. Stelly (They Are Watching, The Demonologist)

Starring - Jared Bankens (Twisted Metal, Walker), Matt Story (Blood Country, Her Calling), and Jerry Katz (Men Too, The Exile)

Release Date - 2024

Genre - Thriller

Tagline - "Beware the call of his name"

Format - Streaming (Online Screener)

Rating (out of 5):

     I've spent a good portion of my adult life writing reviews for indie releases.  I love the originality and imagination you find in indie releases from passionate filmmakers with a love for the genre.  I've seen some wild films over and years and every day I'm finding new films that surprise the hell out of me.  A few weeks ago filmmaker J. M. Stelly contacted me about an upcoming thriller of his titled Abacus.  Honestly, the title didn't excited me that much but I was still curious about the film.  I agreed to check it out and I'm glad I did because absolutely loved it.  I want to thank Stelly for allowing Horror Society and myself the opportunity to check it out.  

     The film follows three strangers who find themselves locked in a cement room with no escape.  They soon discover one of them is holding a gun and a phone laying nearby.  After the discovery of the phone it begins ringing and an ominous voice tells them that they are brought together because of their connections.  Over time it is revealed that they may not know each other directly but their random dealings and seedy history has them connected.

     I'll be honest, I was interested in Abacus for the synopsis only.  The title and poster for it didn't really peak my interest.  However, after just a few minutes into the film I was immediately hooked.  It was a brooding and atmospheric film that did remind me a lot of Saw but with a crime thriller touch.  The acting in this one is very well done.  The cast is extremely small and everyone carries their own weight.  We have some pretty intense performances that works very well against the dark and bleak setting of the film.  The story for this one is a bit predictable but it's still a very enjoyable ride regardless.  I love the characters backstories and how well it integrates into the story.  I also love how it felt like a mix of Saw meets organized crime.  Some of the scenes are a bit drawn out but it still works.  Finally, the film is not one with a body count.  We do have a scene that is particularly bloody but it's not something that will stick with the gorehounds.  Overall, Abacus is a gritty thriller that may not be for all genre fans but I thoroughly enjoyed it.  I highly recommend checking this one out when you can.