Closer to God (2015)

Closer to God (2014) - A Gritty Dive into Moral Boundaries and Scientific Exploration

Introduction

"Closer to God" is a 2014 American horror film that delves deep into the ethical and emotional turmoil stirred by groundbreaking scientific experimentation. This film intertwines elements of horror with a thought-provoking narrative centered around genetics and the implications of playing god. Directed and written by Billy Senese, "Closer to God" offers a compelling story that combines suspense, drama, and horror to question the moral limits of scientific discovery.

Synopsis

The film tells the story of Dr. Victor Reed (played by Jeremy Childs), a scientist who harbors an obsession with pushing the boundaries of life by cloning. His controversial experiment leads to the creation of a clone named Ethan, who grows rapidly and exhibits both unsettling intelligence and violent behavior. Dr. Reed’s wife, Lauren Reed (played by Shelean Newman), struggles to cope with the consequences of her husband's scientific obsession as their lives spiral out of control. The film explores themes such as the consequences of unethical scientific experimentation, the nature of identity, and the impact of playing God on human relationships.

Main Actors and Characters

• Jeremy Childs as Dr. Victor Reed: Childs delivers a compelling performance as the tormented scientist, portraying a man driven by ambition but blinded by the consequences of his actions.
• Shelean Newman as Lauren Reed: Playing Victor's wife, Newman encapsulates the emotional turmoil and fear that grip a family caught in a nightmarish situation.

While the focus remains primarily on these two characters, the film features supporting performances that add layers of tension and realism to the storyline.

Director and Writer

Billy Senese both directed and wrote "Closer to God," crafting a tightly woven narrative that bridges horror with science fiction. Senese's writing shines through in the script's nuanced handling of the ethical questions surrounding cloning and human experimentation. His direction maintains a steady tension throughout the film, building an atmosphere that is both eerie and contemplative.

Production and Style

Shot with a relatively modest budget, "Closer to God" uses its resources effectively to create a claustrophobic and unsettling environment. The film leverages dark, moody lighting and a haunting score to heighten the sense of dread. The practical effects and makeup contribute significantly to the horror element, especially in depicting the rapid growth and behavioral changes of the clone, Ethan.

Themes and Analysis

At its core, "Closer to God" interrogates the ethical consequences of cloning and the human desire to transcend natural limits. It questions whether scientific advancement should be restrained by moral considerations or pursued relentlessly irrespective of the cost. The film also examines the complexities of parental relationships in unconventional circumstances, highlighting the struggles of acceptance, control, and fear.

The horror elements are not just for shock value, but serve to underscore the unnatural consequences of tampering with life. The creature's violent tendencies symbolize the unpredictability and danger inherent in manipulating genetic material without foresight.

Reception

"Closer to God" garnered attention primarily within the indie horror circuit, appreciated for its intelligent script and atmospheric tension. While it did not reach mainstream blockbuster status, the performances and moral questions raised earned it a place among thoughtful horror enthusiasts. Critics have noted that the film successfully balances the horror elements with an emotionally charged narrative.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Closer to God" (2014) is a fascinating horror film that transcends typical genre boundaries by embedding ethical debates within its narrative framework. Thanks to strong performances by Jeremy Childs and Shelean Newman, combined with Billy Senese's direction and writing, the film stands out as a compelling exploration of science’s dark frontiers. It challenges viewers to consider the price of human ambition and where the line should be drawn when it comes to manipulating life itself.

If you are intrigued by horror films that offer more than just scares—those that blend psychological tension with scientific morality—"Closer to God" is definitely worth a watch.

IMDB Link: Closer to God (2014) on IMDb

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