The Vast of Night (2020) is a captivating and atmospheric science fiction thriller directed by Andrew Patterson. The film, which had a limited release and was praised for its unique approach to storytelling, draws inspiration from classic 1950s sci-fi and features a minimalistic yet immersive plot. Set in a small town in New Mexico in 1950, it revolves around the mysterious occurrence of strange sounds being picked up on a local radio frequency.
The story follows two main characters: Everett (Jake Horowitz), a fast-talking radio DJ, and Fay (Sierra McCormick), a curious switchboard operator. One night, while working in their respective jobs, the two stumble upon a strange, unexplained signal that seems to be coming from the sky. As they dig deeper, the signal leads them into an eerie and suspenseful investigation involving possible extraterrestrial activity. The film’s pacing is deliberately slow, creating a sense of dread and mystery as the two characters try to make sense of what they’re hearing and witnessing.
The film stands out for its retro vibe, capturing the tone of old-school sci-fi with a focus on dialogue and character development rather than visual effects. The story is told almost entirely through long takes, conversations, and intimate moments of suspense rather than action-heavy sequences. This style allows the viewer to become deeply immersed in the mystery of the signal and the characters’ pursuit of answers, relying on atmosphere and tension to keep things engaging.
The performances from Jake Horowitz and Sierra McCormick are impressive, with both actors delivering solid, engaging portrayals of two young, inquisitive individuals trying to make sense of something that seems beyond their comprehension. Their chemistry drives the film, particularly as they work together to unravel the mystery.
The film’s most striking feature is its sound design, which plays a key role in creating the eerie, unsettling atmosphere. The film often uses silence and subtle noises to build tension, heightening the suspense without relying on traditional jump scares. This unique approach makes The Vast of Night a quiet, cerebral experience that leaves much to the imagination.
At just 90 minutes, the film keeps a tight focus on its central mystery, with no extraneous subplots or distractions. It’s a small, intimate film that rewards patient viewers, as the story builds slowly but steadily toward its conclusion.
The Vast of Night is a perfect film for fans of old-school sci-fi and those who appreciate tension-filled, dialogue-driven narratives. Its minimalist approach is both refreshing and effective, proving that you don’t need big budget effects to create an engaging and thought-provoking story. If you’re looking for a smart, atmospheric sci-fi film that focuses more on mood and mystery than spectacle, this one is definitely worth checking out.
