Although something of an outcast and misfit with issues (understandably), Andrew is under the care and protection of his popular cousin Matt, who takes him to a rave along with his even more popular friend Steve. Because Andrew has his camera with him the other two take him into a cave they have (inexplicably) found, where they discover a sort of crystal that causes them to lose consciousness, but when they wake up they find they have telekinetic powers, and being teenage boys they use their newfound powers for pranks such as moving cars, lifting up girls’ dresses and other general mischief. However, the more they use their powers, the stronger they become and they soon find they are capable of extraordinary things, but without the guidance of an Uncle Ben, they don’t embrace the great responsibility that comes with great power.
To retain the video diary feel without limiting it only to Andrew’s point of view, director Josh Trank introduces other perspectives such as those of Matt’s love interest Casey, a video blogger, as well as Andrew using his powers to float the camera to include himself in the action. At the end of the film, as the action ramps and Andrew is no longer in control of his camera, footage from security cameras, and onlooker mobile phones is introduced helping to add a sense of reality to the spectacle.
Overall this is a highly entertaining and fresh take on the superpower genre, with moments of both great humour and pathos. The shooting technique works well and is believable throughout, and on the occasions that it slips it doesn’t distract. There are, however, a couple of occasions that don’t stand up to scrutiny and leave you questioning, but these are fleeting and the films pacing doesn’t leave much time to linger on them. Unfortunately, despite all its indie posturing and credibility it establishes throughout, the final scene is just a bit too Hollywood, which slightly taints all the good work that had come, although this could have come from studio “advice”.Thankfully, this film hasn’t been massively hyped so it will be a pleasant surprise that manages to be entertaining while still addressing issues such as bullying and the corruptibility of power.
Chronicle is in cinemas from 1 February.