Lo: A Film Review

I couldn't resist watching this film after seeing the preview. Dancing demons, bright costumes, and makeup that, while visually simple, recalled that of Pan's Labyrinth... How could anyone be unmoved? But Lo shocked me, and not in a way I expected. I prepared myself for a dark musical a'la Corpse Bride and instead was treated to a complex and hilarious film.

I found Lo in the horror section's dark comedy subset. I think it would be better placed between dark comedy and drama. Because it deals with demons and occult rituals, I suppose it fit someone's bill for a scary flick. But these elements are secondary to the substance of the film: an examination of love and human nature. Hell is not the subject of Lo, merely the setting.

Nearly all of the film takes place in the apartment of the protagonist, Justin (Ward Roberts). It has all the simplicity of the single-set play. (Think The Iceman Cometh and The Glass Menagerie.) Because the viewer is not distracted by the surroundings, the dialogue must carry all of the message. And it does. Aside from an ever-present Brown Jenkin-type rat, Justin interacts with one character at a time. Demons Lo and Jeez offer contrasting styles and personalities that are highlighted by the black background. Justin's internal monologue becomes apparent through an unexpected character as well.

There is a second stage. Literally. Justin's memories take place on a theatrical set, complete with backstage glimpses and painted backdrops. A musical number also utilizes the stage.

You read correctly. Lo has music and dance numbers. They offer flair to the grim locale and storyline and serve as funny transitions between more serious moments. Sarcasm, one-liners, visual gags and casual profanity - not overdone - also soften the edge of Justin's visit to Hell.

Justin has summoned Lo to retrieve his love, April. She was taken by another demon and he doesn't want to live without her. Using a book of occult rituals, he summons Lo to bring her back. This creates the single-stage situation and opens the door to self-awareness. This is the real journey.

The effects in Lo are simplistic and bizarre. The trailer gives a hint at the demons. They are well-done, despite the film's budget. Other effects are subtle or short-lived. This isn't a blood-and-explosion film.

Take a ride with Justin into the netherworld. It's a hilarious, sometimes mildly frightening, experience. And the insight it offers is priceless. I can't wait to own this film. It belongs on my shelf. You'll understand why when you're knee-deep in its strange beauty. I can't offer too much praise for Lo. It deserves a national audience.