The saviour act
film: Time Cut
Director: Hannah Macpherson
Cast: Madison Bailey, Antonia Gentry, Griffin Gluck, Megan Best, Michael Shanks, Adam Hurtig and Sydney Sabiston
The slasher movie genre has made a comeback, but with some conditions. New movies are either part of an existing franchise, or rely on gimmicks like time loops or body swapping. Initially inventive, this trend has become predictable. ‘Time Cut’ is an example, feeling like a parody of recent slasher movies.
The movie starts in 2003 with a high school girl, Summer (Antonia Gentry), being murdered. The story jumps to 2024, with her sister Lucy (Madison Bailey) still grieving. On the anniversary of Summer’s death, Lucy discovers a time machine that takes her back to the week before the murder. She tries to change history.
The setup is unoriginal, similar to other movies like ‘Totally Killer’ and ‘The Final Girls’. The film touches on a dark idea — saving her sister would mean Lucy wouldn’t exist — but avoids exploring it in favour of sentimental moments.
For a late 1990s’ kid, the movie stands out for nostalgia, reliving the fashion and music of the era. Unlike typical slasher films, this one offers a refreshing twist. The film’s retro elements, such as the early 2000s’ fashion and music, make it particularly enjoyable for someone from my generation. The casting is also well done.
Madison and Antonia deliver a stellar performance as sisters who did not know each other, whereas Griffin Gluck, in love with Summer (Antonia), is full of surprises. His chemistry with both the sisters is convincingly good.
The material is weak but the acting is the saving grace. Also, by the time one reaches the climax, one doesn’t find a motive for the serial killer/slasher. Furthermore, the supporting actors could have been more convincing, especially Lucy’s parents, who look in their 50s in 2003, and not nearly 70 in 2024.
Hannah Macpherson’s movie is less of a suspense horror and more of a teen drama. It is ideal for a fun, light-hearted watch, similar to experiencing a haunted house, rather than aiming for intense fear like in horror classics. While geared towards teens, the nostalgic value extends its appeal to older viewers too.
