Horror-101

RIIHFF Reviews: ‘Circuit’ Best of the Fest

Disorienting yet engaging debut shows promise for a future auteur

written by Andrew Landauro and Ben Woodard
directed by Andrew Landauro

How does one review that which they themselves cannot fully comprehend? It may seem as a disservice to you, dear reader, but it would be much greater an injustice to let this film go unmentioned. Circuit is the feature debut from director Andrew Landauro, who co-wrote the intricate script with editor Ben Woodard. The puzzling film is made up of five pieces, each based on one of the human senses. In addition to the stories leading into one another, the commonality between them are colorful, glowing pods, which in turn act as metaphors for a variety of life problems, ranging from fear of love to eating disorders. Are you confused yet?

This is typically the portion of the review where I reveal a bit about the film’s plot. However, as this is already an atypical review, I will opt not to. Not only would it be a futile task to consolidate a spoiler-free synopsis of the picture in a couple of paragraphs, but it’s much better going into this film without knowing anything about it.

I will instead provide you with an account of my own experience with the film. I first watched it on the big screen as part of the Rhode Island International Horror Film Festival. It was nice that the picture closed out the weekend’s festivities, because it left time for me to think it over and try to piece the puzzle together in my mind. I knew I needed to watch it again in order to give it a proper write-up, and Landauro, a Massachusetts native who was present at the screening, was kind enough to oblige by providing me with a copy. I re-watched the film, this time with a few friends, and it was even better the second time around. Following our viewing, my friends and I formulated our theories on the film’s story and symbolism, gushing about the possibilities of dreams, aliens, drugs, and more. In the days following, I haven’t stopped thing about it. That’s part of the fun of Circuit; not only is it a well-made cinematic experience, but it also stays with the viewer and causes them to think.

The circular narrative utilized by the film keeps the viewer on their toes. You will watch like a sponge, soaking in the twisting story, immersed in its complexities, constantly wondering where they will take you next. Just as you get invested in a set of characters and think you have a grasp as to what’s unfolding before your eyes, the rug is pulled out from underneath you as you’re introduced to a new faces. At the end, there is no clear resolution to any of the stories, but rather an ambiguous conclusion (if you could even call it that). It undeniably warrants — nay, requires additional viewings, not only to wrap your head around the elaborate story being told through so many leads, but also to fully appreciate all of the subtleties hidden amongst the film’s many layers. You will pick up on new elements each time you watch.

Of course, a film of this nature is not made for mass consumption, which is a shame considering what a well-made picture it is. Those who appreciate the nonlinear, science fiction-tinged works of visionary auteurs such as David Lynch, Richard Kelly, and David Cronenberg will love deconstructing the intellectual mindfuck that is Circuit and formulating their own interpretations of the events. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Landauro joined that esteemed list one of these days. I greatly anticipate his next offering, and in the interim I will continue to pour over Circuit.

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