Spiral - SC Films/ICM Partners/Digital Interference/Shudder

Spiral - Canadian Horror Thriller Film

"Spiral" Summary

"Spiral," directed by Kurtis David Harder, is a captivating Canadian horror thriller film. It follows the journey of Malik and Aaron, a same-sex couple, along with their daughter Kayla, as they move to a seemingly welcoming small town, only to uncover potentially sinister secrets hidden beneath the surface. The film skillfully explores themes of conformity and otherness. It made its debut at Arrow Video Frightfest in August 2019 and was later released on Shudder in September 2020, receiving critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling and thematic depth.

Film Reviews

Bradley Stuckel's cinematography in the movie "Spiral" is notable for its role in enhancing the film's atmosphere and supporting its thematic exploration. The film, set in a suburban town with a sinister secret, benefits from Stuckel's visual storytelling, which complements its narrative of horror and social commentary. His work is acknowledged in various reviews for its effectiveness in creating a tense and mysterious atmosphere.

1. Smash Cut Reviews praises Stuckel's cinematography for contributing to a dark atmosphere of dread. His visual approach is well-thought-out, adding depth to the film's slow-burn horror and balancing the themes of mystery, horror, and social commentary​​.
2. Reel Advice commends the combination of cinematography and soundtrack, which effectively creates tension and mystery. Director Kurtis David Harder's camera work, supported by Stuckel's cinematography, immerses the audience in the film's narrative, particularly in the experiences of the lead character, Malik​​.
3. Eye for Film discusses the film's exploration of themes and portrayal of the central character's predicament, suggesting that the overall visual and atmospheric presentation, including cinematography, enhances these aspects of the film​​.
4. Flickering Myth mentions the film being visually unremarkable but acknowledges the merit in its central conceit. It suggests that aspects of the film, including its visual storytelling, make it an interesting genre effort despite some narrative critiques​​.
5. Roger Ebert's review offers a broader discussion on the film's narrative and themes, such as the experience of a same-sex couple in a small town, a narrative likely enhanced by the film's visual elements​​.

Overall, Bradley Stuckel's cinematography in "Spiral" is recognized for its effectiveness in creating a tense and mysterious atmosphere, supporting the film's exploration of social and horror themes. While some reviews critique certain narrative elements, the visual storytelling and atmosphere, to which Stuckel contributes, are noted as strengths of the film.

For more detailed reviews and insights on Bradley Stuckel's cinematography in "Spiral," you can refer to the following sources:

• Smash Cut Reviews
• Reel Advice
• Eye for Film
• Flickering Myth
• Roger Ebert

Creative Team and Production Details

Directed by: Kurtis David Harder

Writing Credits: Colin Minihan, John Poliquin

Main Cast: Jeffrey Bowyer-Chapman as Malik, Ari Cohen as Aaron, Jennifer Laporte as Kayla, with supporting roles by Ty Wood, Lochlyn Munro, and Chandra West

Produced by: Chris Ball, Kurtis David Harder, Colin Minihan, John Poliquin, along with several executive producers including Brandon Christensen, Miles Forster, Jeremy Guilbaut, and others

Cinematography: Bradley Stuckel

Music by: Avery Kentis

Editing: Kurtis David Harder, Colin Minihan

Casting By: Tiffany Mak

Production Design: Matthew Carswell

Costume Design: Caleigh Kansas

Makeup Department: Led by Tracy Falukozi as special makeup effects artist

Production Management: Sylvia Brach as production manager

Awards Recognition

• Leo Awards (2020): Nominated for Best Cinematography in a Motion Picture (Bradley Stuckel).
• Other Worlds Austin SciFi Film Festival (2019): Won the Dan O'Bannon Under Worlds Best Feature (Kurtis David Harder).
• HNiD Awards (2021):
  • Colin Minihan and John Poliquin achieved 3rd place for Best Screenplay.
  • Jeffrey Bowyer-Chapman was a write-in for Best Actor.
  • The film was the Runner-up for Most Underappreciated Movie of the Year and achieved 3rd place for Best Movie on Demand (VOD release).

Technical Details

"Spiral" premiered in August 2019 at Arrow Video Frightfest and was later released on Shudder in September 2020.

Camera: Arri Alexa Mini

Lenses: Cooke Anamorphic

Aspect Ratio: 2.39:1

Printed Format: DCP Digital Cinema Package, Video (UHD)

Sound mix: Dolby Surround 5.1

Distribution by: AMC Networks Shudder streaming platform