Reflections (III) (2008) User Reviews

Superbly Original and Thrilling...

[sandi2525 · 9/10 · 22 October 2008]

Superbly original and thrilling, this film tells the story of Carol, a young woman with a unique ability—- she sees the haunting reflections, mainly of things past, in mirrors playing out like a twisted video recording.

Director Barry Caldwell does an amazing job of weaving together the complex storyline into a cohesive and highly enjoyable film. Through clever editing and the use of subtle foreshadowing, Caldwell effectively conveys to the viewer Carol's sense of isolation and loneliness.

Adrienne Wilkinson is amazing as the emotionally crippled Carol, whose deep mistrust and fear of others prevents her from establishing meaningful connections with those around her. Carol's emotional torment over the disturbing reflections she sees in mirrors is more than effectively conveyed by the way in which Wilkinson carries herself as Carol: shoulders hunched, eyes always to the ground, never truly connecting with those around her. Wilkinson's eyes force the viewer to share in the sadness and distress Carol's unique ability brings about.

With a surprise ending sure to make you gasp, this short film is every bit as good as (if not better than) the feature length thrillers being released by major studios. You'll never look at those around you in the same way after seeing this film.

Wow

[bluebirdpretzeltrex · 10/10 · 22 September 2007]

Saw an industry screening of this film this past weekend. Had no idea what to expect. i loved it enough that I wanted to leave a comment about it. I saw it in conjunction with several other projects and Reflections blew them all away. I have no idea where you can see this film, but if you hear its in your area - get in line to see it! Somehow the film managed to be creepy but reassuring. It was frightening but empowering. And it really made me think. I was so surprised by such a stellar cast in this little gem of a film. How did they find so many talented actors to participate? The best part is the ending. I won't spoil the surprise by saying in detail what happens - but lets just say that it gives me shivers down my spine to think about it now. Great movie!

Wonderful Film

[Christa-Morris-1 · 10/10 · 5 March 2008]

Reflections is a film with a brilliant concept. Based on the premise, that when Carol Anderson looks into any reflective surface she sees any horrible thing that has been reflected in that surface. I have seen this movie twice and I have to say that each time it has intrigued me more. Adrienne Wilkinson is superb in the roll of Carol Anderson. She brings to life the character's sadness and the torment that this somewhat physic power has brought to a young women's existence. I would love to see it as a full-length feature. I also have to say that I think it would be a very interesting to explore as a television series. I would highly recommend anyone who has the chance, to see this wonderful film.

psychological kick to the gut

[esall1 · 9/10 · 26 October 2008]

I caught this short film at a festival in Virginia. The primary premise of the film is that the main character sees horrible events from the past or future in every reflective surface.

This film surprised me with its combination of a person who's life is defined by a disturbing acceptance/expectation of the worst in everything and the life long psychological trauma that leaves her unable to do anything about it. The main main character (portrayed by Adrienne Wilkinson)expertly exudes an aura of defeat even when she as she seeks help.

Without trying to give anything away. The progression of the film follows a surprising, yet possibly inevitable path that has to be seen to be truly appreciated. I will definitely see this film again.

A gem

[jessicahousden · 9/10 · 7 June 2008]

I saw this wonderful movie at the Staten Island film festival -- and I highly recommend it. I attended because I'm a big fan of Adrienne Wilkinson (Carol), but I was pleased to discover how good the other cast members were, as well as the wonderful script and direction. The festival listed it as a horror movie, though it seemed more like a drama with some elements of horror to me. I'm not going to comment on the plot, because it's a pleasure to watch the movie without spoilers. The story is very thought-provoking. All the actors are strong, but Adrienne's performance makes the movie. I'd give it a perfect ten if it had been a little longer, I felt that there was a lot more to this story than what we see in the movie. But other than that, it's great. If "Reflections" is showing close to you, please go and see it -- you won't regret it!

An exceptional film.

[xenatorres · 10/10 · 14 June 2008]

One of the first things that should be said about "Reflections" is the uniqueness of the concept itself. Carol looks into any reflective surface, and she sees the worst thing that surface has seen or will see. Anywhere she looks, she is assaulted by horrors. Mark Garbett has managed to find a new spin on the 'cursed by a gift' theme, and presents it in a manner that hits the viewer instantly and brings them into Carol's struggle.

Beautifully executed by director Barry Caldwell, "Reflections" is haunting, touching, and thrilling, delivering a powerful film that takes the viewer into Carol's pain, while also delivering a surprise thriller. It's easy to see how easily this film will develop into a feature, even more fleshed out and powerful.

It's also impossible to not love a movie that delivers an unexpected ending, which is always a rare treat.

The film is carried further with a stellar cast. Adrienne Wilkinson plays Carol, reflecting the character's entire journey in her eyes. Adrienne possesses the ability to tell Carol's entire story in her eyes - everything is there without needing a single word.

Every actor is worth noting for what they brought to their roles, regardless of the size of the role. The cast elevates the already amazing work of the crew.

"Reflections" is most certainly worth making the effort to see - several times! An exceptional film.

awesome movie

[eternalflame13 · 10/10 · 28 July 2008]

i was lucky enough to catch this movie today. it is a great and original story and has great acting in it, particularly the lead actress Adrienne Wilkinson.All movies are of course open to interpretation, but I really felt that the cast captured exactly my thoughts about the movie. It was a great treat to see this short film . I also loved the way the subject matter was a new twist. There are many tragic moments that make up the life of the main character, and yet the ending , whilst many may see as a tragedy, I found a strange sense of hope in. It was a really thought provoking and entertaining piece. I will be going to see it again.

Fantastic Little Film

[gabbysgirl · 9/10 · 2 March 2008]

I saw Reflections a few weeks ago and loved it. It was with a series of other short films but I think this one stood out more than the others. It was kind of eerie and creepy but not in a gross way. Most of the time you just get to imagine what Carol is seeing in the mirrors as she describes it. It's very much a psychological mystery. I don't want to give too much away because you really have to see it for yourself to appreciate it, but I was really surprised at who ended up being the "bad guy". It was very cool and the end was quite chilling. The actors made a wonderful little ensemble and Adrienne was absolutely brilliant. I give it two thumbs up!

stellar little film

[michelle-munier · 10/10 · 3 March 2008]

I had the fantastic opportunity to see this short film this past weekend at a short film festival. What a concept! This poor character had the worst gift one could imagine. Seeing the past and/or the future in reflections. Not being able to see herself in a mirror, glass, or any other shiny thing without seeing death. This short film left me with wanting more. I so wished this film was a feature. There is so much more to the character then 15 minutes could show. I absolutely loved this little gem. It was shown under horror but was more psychological to me. No spoiler of the ending as this is the best part of the film. I will say this though, Adrienne Wilkinson is brilliant as always and if you look real hard you can catch a glimpse of the stunt coordinator Zoe Bell. Loved this film and I recommend it highly!!!

see this film!

[lilacwinejunkie · 10/10 · 29 December 2008]

I saw this movie a few months ago...just now getting around to posting a comment. Saw it at a festival in Los Angeles. I was there to support another film, but ended up voting for this one because I liked it so much. Its beautifully made - not the kind of film you normally get the chance to see. The best part is the ending. I was most impressed by the performances - somehow in such a short time you find yourself going through so many emotions - anticipation, empathy, fear, peace, suspicion, revulsion and even laughter - but it never feels forced. The cast is made up of familiar faces. Great actors that I hope to see more of. The performance of Jim Beaver was unexpected - very different from his usual characters - and I loved what Adrienne Wilkinson did with this complex character and challenging part. The movie wouldn't have worked it you didn't feel for Carol and root for her. I'd like to see Reflections again - I hope it gets a DVD or other kind of public release where I can find it a second time.

Loved This Film

[xenaeternity · 10/10 · 3 March 2008]

I saw this film last Saturday night along with some other films and I have to say That Reflection was by fare the best film that I saw that night the cast and the crew did an outstanding Job it was a well written story and the actress that plays Carol ( Adrienne ) makes you really feel for this poor woman and what she has to live with each and ever day and how hard it must be on her dealing with what she sees each time she sees her Reflection in any thing and let me tell you The guy that plays her door man did a great job of creeping you out. . This film I think would make a great TV series . Its a little Creepy and leaves you on the edge of Your seat not knowing what poor Carol might see next time she see her REFLECTION . The only thing ill say about the ending is you will have to see it for your self's because I don't want to give to much away about it .

awesome film

[bonnimart · 10/10 · 30 March 2008]

got a chance to see reflections at a short film festival. not usually fond of films in the horror category but reflections was more of a psychological thriller.not just a film with a bunch of gore. the leading lady carol is able to see things in the mirror before they happen. i found the concept brilliant. this allowed the film to go in many different directions. the possibilities were endless. wish the film would have lasted longer. great acting by all. very cool ending. it leaves you wondering what could happen next??? if you get a chance do catch this film. definitely worthwhile! also nice that an upcoming favorite actress of mine(adrienne)attended the screening.

Intense character study wrapped up in a psychological thriller disguised as a murder mystery ...

[kt-101 · 10/10 · 15 March 2009]

What you'll want after seeing "Reflections" is more. This short film is a tantalizing tease for a longer treatment -- a full length feature or, better yet, a television series.

It's a psychological thriller and murder mystery in which a young woman sees images in mirrors. The images relate to the room, or the people in it... or do they?

James Morrison and Louis Lombardi give solid performances; Matt Long and Jim Beaver are perfect focal points of tension. However, the star of this piece is Adrienne Wilkinson -- her performance is delicately layered, slowly peeling away the fragility of her character but never making her seem weak, or a victim. While her suffering is painful, her performance is unforgettable. It might sound trite, but it brought Heath Ledger's performance as the JOKER to my mind. Hard to watch, but brilliant.