Abruptio is a Masterpiece of Puppet Horror

by Justine Norton-Kertson

I’ve been sitting on this one for a few weeks, wanting to wait until a bit closer to the film’s broader release on December 10. But I took the long drive up to Portland last month for one of the limited screenings of Abruptio. Maybe I’m easy. I mean, they had me at “puppets.” But it was worth the 4 hour round trip.

Abruptio is a groundbreaking horror film that boldly ventures into uncharted territory by employing life-sized puppets in place of human actors. This innovative choice crafts a surreal and unsettling atmosphere, immersing viewers in a narrative that is as riveting as it is weird.

The film follows Les Hackel, voiced by James Marsters (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), a man whose mundane existence spirals into chaos upon discovering a bomb implanted in his neck. To survive, Les is coerced into executing a series of increasingly atrocious tasks, leading him into a labyrinth of moral ambiguity, psychological torment, and body horror.

The ensemble voice cast delivers exceptional performances, with notable contributions from Jordan Peele as Danny, Les's best friend; the late Sid Haig as Sal, a failed comedian; and Robert Englund as Mr. Salk, a morally conflicted outcast. Their portrayals infuse the puppet characters with depth and authenticity, enhancing the film's emotional resonance in ways that helped me forget they’re watching a puppet show.

Visually, "Abruptio" is a triumph of experimental filmmaking. The meticulous design of the puppets, combined with their interaction in live-action environments, creates a disquieting yet captivating aesthetic that I couldn’t get enough of. The inclusion of hand-drawn animated segments further enriches the film's unique visual tapestry, offering a refreshing departure from conventional styles. I have to say that I was also impressed by the creativity of the kills in the film, especially considering the puppet medium.

The narrative delves into themes of control, identity, and the human capacity for violence, challenging audiences to confront uncomfortable questions about morality and free will. The film's willingness to explore these dark territories, coupled with its avant-garde presentation, solidifies Abruptio as a daring and artistically significant work in contemporary horror cinema.

In summary, Abruptio stands as a testament to the power of experimental storytelling. Its fusion of innovative puppetry, compelling voice performances, and thought-provoking themes culminates in a film that is as intellectually stimulating as it is visually arresting.

For those seeking a horror experience that defies convention and challenges perception, Abruptio is an essential viewing.