The mind of man is capable of astonishing things. Consider the strides made in modern medicine, or the increasingly rapid pace of technological advancements. The mind is responsible for everything we have, everything we love, and everything we know. But not every mind is capable of greatness. It can often cause just as much harm. One can become lost in their thoughts, and those thoughts can either lift you to the highest of platforms, or drag you to the very lowest depths of human existence. That’s where Familiar comes in.

John Dodd is a middle aged man who finds himself stuck in a life that he no longer desires. He sees his wife as a prison warden, and his daughter as a life draining parasite. Luckily for John, his daughter is about to be off to college. The plan is to buy a truck – to simply leave, and never look back. But life has a funny way of surprising you, and after a series of tragic events – John finds his plan in jeopardy…and his thoughts becoming darker and darker. He begins to suspect that it isn’t his mind that is controlling his thoughts and actions, but something else.

Familiar is the first film I have seen from the now highly regarded Fatal Pictures production company, and it has made one hell of a first impression. The combination of writing and directing from Richard Powell is nothing short of masterful. Robert Nolan and Astrida Auza both deliver valuable performances that would be right at home in even the largest of productions. And even though the first half of the film focuses on a rather controversial topic in its own right – it’s the finale that is truly jaw dropping. I found my face actually getting sore from making the same disgusted expression over the course of the final 3 minutes….my fucking face hurt. Now that’s saying something.

Every once in a while I see a film that reminds me that horror is still very much alive in its traditional state. Familiar is one such film. It’s well written, well acted, and every bit as shocking and disturbing as it is horrifying. Familiar is the total package. Perhaps best of all, is the fact that you can watch it right here. Right now.

Watch Familiar  HERE. Free of charge, courtesy of Fatal Pictures and Film Shortage.

Through a series of tragic events, a middle aged man grows to suspect the negative impulses plaguing his mind may not be his own.

Official Poster