Director: Riley Stearns
MPAA Rating: NR
For some reason, I have always had an affinity with films revolving around cults. The psychology behind someone who can be brainwashed into following some self-appointed leader is a fascinating subject to explore. When you throw comedy into the mix it’s even better and such is the case with Riley Stearns’ Faults. With a breakout performance of Leland Orser, this small, dialogue driven dark comedy provides insight into the manipulation of a cult, while providing some hilarious bits of humor.
Orser plays Ansel, a down on his luck author who specializes in understanding the mechanics of cults. After his last book bombs and he finds himself in dire financial straights, he reluctantly agrees to help a couple deprogram their daughter, Claire, played by Mary Elizabeth Winstead. Claire has fallen into a cult called Faults and its up to Ansel to talk some sense into her.
The script in Faults is sharp and on point, bringing with it some excellent twists and loads of dry comedy. It’s difficult to gauge where the film is heading from the beginning, and when things begin to fall into place the outcome is satisfying and rewarding. To divulge any additional plot details would ruin the movie, but it’s the clever narrative that really makes this a must-see.
Leland Orser as the stressed out Ansel is the exact type of role he needed to prove himself as a leading man. He brings such desperate and raw emotion to the screen we first hate the guy then sort of pity him. Orser has always given great performances, but he’s often relegated to character actor status, however hopefully this will generate some more meaty roles for him because he’s amazing in this.
Stylistically, the film is understated and colorless, taking place almost entirely in a depressing motel room. Everything feels worn and tired, much like Ansel after falling into debt, losing his wife, and having his career in shambles. While one-location films can tend to become tedious, Faults breaks it up by occasionally leaving the confines of the room and bringing us to Ansel’s scuzzy agent’s office, the parking lot, or in his beat up junker of a car.
Faults is easily one of the best films SXSW has to offer this year. It’s original, smartly written, and wildly funny. Everyone in the cast churns out some fantastic performances, but Leland Orser knocks it out of the park. If you’re into weird, quirky humor, Faults is one that can’t be missed.
