The VHS format has been a nostalgic well of imagination for horror movies and TV in the modern era. Whether that was looking back at the 1980s and the era that the videotape was in its heyday, or looking back at old videos in modern times it has been well-trodden ground. However, the notion of the video format containing a malevolent force itself is something of an interesting twist on the concept, and it's that new take that forms the key story for Video Vision.
The central story of Video Vision is concerned with Kibby (Andrea Figliomeni), who works in a restoration and digitization company for old format media including VHS tapes alongside her boss Rodney (Shelley Valfer). Kibby meets (Gator Chrystal Peterson), who identifies as a transgender man and after some initial hesitation, begins a budding relationship. At around the same time an old VHS player unit arrives, but by playing the tape inside Kibby begins experiencing some strange and unusual phenomena that alter her perception of reality leading to horrific visions of a mysterious entity known as Dr Analogue.
On paper, Video Vision seems like a home run. Cool aesthetic, retro technology, Videodrome-esque use of false realities. Unfortunately, something doesn't quite click. The acting performances are fine. Andrea Figliomeni is more than passable as Kibby, and Chrystal Peterson does surprisingly well in what could have been a very challenging role as a trans man awaiting transition. In fact, the transition aspect of Video Vision is one of the better-handled parts of the film, with some real thought, weight and emotion going into the issues that someone in that position could face. The chemistry between the two leads is very good, and although the back-and-forth is amusing, the constant questions and faux pas about Gator's transition from Kibby don't make her a naturally likeable lead at points. It's important and delves into various potential questions but it feels like it sidetracks the film at some points, even if it is in a tactful, sensitive way.
Perhaps the biggest issue with Video Vision is the pacing. Things happen fairly quickly at the beginning, but there are lengthy periods where it perhaps needs more inciting incidents to move the story along. The way the story unfolds is very rushed in the final act, and although events ramp up, it makes the whole film a tiny bit lopsided. Dr Analogue, aside from the very underwhelming name, is also incredibly underdeveloped beyond a small bit of exposition later in the film and what exactly is happening to Kibby at points is unclear. Not in a mysterious way, just in a not well-explained way. Thankfully, Video Vision is tremendously well shot and looks fantastic at points, fully utilising the VHS aesthetic. It's just a shame that the story doesn't do enough to match the visuals, and without a satisfactory explanation of several plot holes Video Vision is more bargain bin than blockbuster, which is a real shame given the enticing premise.
Video Vision had its international premiere at FrightFest 2024 on Saturday, August 24.
