Movie review: Terminus

A near fatal auto accident causes David to come in contact with a strange alien life form which in turn, drives him toward self-preservation and potentially saving the human race.

Jai Koutrae (David), Kendra Appleton (Annabelle), Todd Lasance (Zach), Bren Foster (Agent Stipe), Brendan Clearkin (Ned), Vincent Andriano (O'Mally), William Emmons (Agent Lubinski), Steve Le Marquand (Sherriff).

Terminus begins with the story already unfolding from the perspective of some government agent types and we quickly realize there is something big happening here. The story then shifts to the perspective of David, a down on his luck father who suffers a near fatal car crash that brings him in touch with an alien life form. Somehow the alien force compels David to anticipate and work against some unknown future event, reminding us of other better known alien flicks. The remainder of the film is a meandering, unexplained progression of events leading up to an ending that while tying everything together neatly, also feels like an escape.

Acting was decent but the characters, despite what appears to have been a decent script, don't seem to have a lot of emotional energy. Koutrae fit the role but felt somewhat detached. Lasance was slightly better but seemed restricted by his role. Appleton probably conveyed the best emotional performance and did nicely. The remainder of the cast, though still feeling a bit dry, did well.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were simple but good. Natural scenery felt solid and well used. CGI was okay but could have used some polish in a couple of scenes. Action scenes were nicely done with a realistic feel. Dialogue was dry, slow, and could have done a lot more to add depth in this film. Sound and soundtrack were bland but fitting.

Overall Terminus is a mixed bag. The bulk of the film is only mildly entertaining but the ending ties things together well while also adding the depth that was missing throughout most of the film. If an ending can redeem a film for you, check this one out. But if you are someone who desires depth on the entire journey, you may be slightly disappointed.

Some mildly disturbing alien stuff, violence, some foul language and a sexual reference or two, but this should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 7.3.16
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Sci-Fi, Alien Sci-Fi, Sci-Fi Thriller, Independent Sci-Fi, Supernatural Thrillers

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel