At its core, “Ash” from RJLE Films and Shudder is a sci-fi horror film like we’ve seen before. But it stands out with the injection of artistry provided by the director and composer of the film, Flying Lotus. Along with its two lead stars Eiza González and Aaron Paul. “Ash” isn’t looking to reinvent the wheel or pretend like it’s trying to elevate anything in particular; rather, it focuses on introducing us to a whole new world, at the same time as we are getting to know the characters. All while having very well thought out music that fits the narrative very well that should overall please fans of the genre.
ABOUT “ASH”
“Ash” begins with us being introduced to González’s character Riya. She wakes up to find herself on a distant planet in a station with no memory of why she is there or what happened to her. It’s a dire situation as she walks around only to find the dead bodies of her crew, blinking lights, and alarms warning of an unusual life force that has been detected. The film almost plays like a video game as we are learning about the situation with her. Who or what did this? Did it leave or is it still on the station?
After some exploring, she is joined by someone named Brion, played by Paul. He claims that he showed up after getting her distress signal. As an audience, we don’t trust Brion because he could be pretending like he doesn’t know what is going on. Could he just be there to finish the job? So even as they try and put together the pieces of the puzzle, there is always the thought that Riya could be getting manipulated. But as soon as she remembers everything that happened, the film kicks into high gear with a variety of action sequences showcasing González’s physical talent. Along with some disturbing, uncomfortable sequences, leading to a satisfying finale.
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WHAT WORKS IN ‘ASH’
First off, what works in “Ash” is that Flying Lotus is a fan of the genre and understands how to utilize the tropes that audiences are accustomed to seeing in sci-fi horror. He blends his role as a director and composer to use music and sounds to the advantage of the story he is telling. Without looking at the screen, you could get a sense of the what mood the scene is looking to convey.
Now, add the great choice of a lead actress in Eiza González, and you have yourself a sci-fi horror film that could become a cult classic in time. Her performance in “Ash” allows the audience to suspend disbelief. and go with her on her journey of discovery. Then, when the time is right, she can also deliver a physical performance, being involved in every action sequence.
WHAT DOESN’T WORK
What didn’t work for me in “Ash” was the middle of the film, after the Brion settles into the station. There is this lull that slows the momentum and seems to interrupt the suspense that we had built with Riya. I feel like it would have flowed better if a few minutes in that time had been shaved off. Also, at some points, the neon lighting was a bit too much. Making them more of a distraction than an artistic choice.
OVERALL
“Ash” is an example of a well-executed sci-fi horror film. While some are always looking for that next genre-bending film, most just want to be entertained. “Ash” does just that, delivering a fun, thrilling sci-fi horror film. One that is not anchored to any franchise yet takes inspiration from many, which fans of the genre can appreciate.
‘ASH’ is in theaters on March 21.
