Neon Cactus (2023) User Reviews

Part crime drama, part quirky dark comedy

[RBIves-202-725352 · 1 March 2023]

This movie had me with an opening scene featuring some laughably endearing characters. Our main man Stanley Cooper sports 2 inch thick glasses which turn his eyes cartoonishly big and right away you're rooting for him no matter what may befall him. What's in store is a journey full of ironic coincidences and secret motivations that one can only smirk along with as each character gets exactly what's coming to them. That's not to say this is predictable. No one is safe and there are surprises along the way you're sure not to see coming.

Don't forget, the vapor wave soundtrack bumping along in the background. It gives an electric, kinetic tone in contrast to the Americana desert setting. Decent acting and cinematography round out a firm outing for actor/director Chris Zuhdi.

A Superb Crime Drama

[kjs1144 · 10/10 · 6 March 2023]

Neon Cactus is an excellent crime drama. Stanley and his wife Maureen both hire the same person to kill each other. It is a very intriguing premise, but the story unfolds from there in a way a definitely did not expect. This movie took a little while to get going, but once it did, I was on the edge of my seat for the entire rest of the runtime. The performances from the main characters were fantastic, and I was especially impressed with Manny Greenfield's performance as Johnny Rocket. Writer/Director Chris Zuhdi deserves recognition for this film. The use of intermittent time-lapse footage, a musical score that often sounded like it was coming through in reverse, and extended overlay effects were all very unique and added so much to the movie. This film deserves more attention, check it out!

A Slow-Burn Thriller

[dtittone · 9/10 · 2 March 2023]

Writer and Director Chris Zuhdi ("Goodnight, Charlene") crafts a slow-burn neo-noir thriller in his film "Neon Cactus." The plot is excellent and keeps the viewer guessing from the beginning to the very end. The acting is superb - Paul T. Taylor and Manny Greenfield are an incredible acting duo in this film, and when the two are sharing the screen, it is like watching two masters at the top of their game. The cinematography is meticulous, effectively capturing the nuances and idiosyncrasies of each character. Writer and Director Chris Zuhdi continues to prove his skills as a writer and director in this intriguing film.

Fun visually captivating crime drama

[indysaini · 9/10 · 21 March 2023]

I felt like I stepped right into the 70's with this stylish crime drama. I'm a big fan of storytelling with a clear strong vision, and this film really delivers. From the bold tone-setting camera angles and the striking vivid color palette, to the well placed use of speed ramping/slowing, the visual language of the film is evocative and perfectly serves the story. It's a steady slow build of intrigue as the 'chapters' unfold and the relationships are revealed, with nothing given away too early. Some great performances, especially by Adah Hagen, and the quirky understated lead Paul T. Taylor. Definitely recommend this fun Indie flick!

A Slow-Burn Neo-Noir Cult Classic.

[debbiinpink · 9/10 · 20 March 2023]

This slow-burn neo-noir crime drama has such a distinct voice by writer and director Chris Zuhdi. The story unfolds in a way that keeps you guessing from the first scene to the last with excellent performances by all the cast who created some really memorable characters. I loved the cinematography, the film had a really cool look to it that took full advantage of its noir aesthetic and Americana influence. Kudos to Chris Zuhdi who did an excellent job of directing this future cult classic. I'm really curious to see what this filmmaker does next in his career. I really recommend this movie to fans of all crime genres, you wont be disappointed.

A View from the UK Kentish countryside of the American Dreamland

[clivepither · 9/10 · 7 November 2023]

Extraordinary entertainment for so many reasons!! The script and story, intelligent, twisty and turny, (blimey I didn't see that bit coming). Dark yet amusing and funny. The acting and actors, a wicked and vivid masterpiece of characters and then, the focus of blue sky and buildings in that weird, brickbuilt Masonic style of American architecture in yesteryear (you know, Gotham City and all that). Wowza!! Awesome acting and a massive advert for Smoking, especially to see a cigar become an extension of personality and diabolical scheming. Nothing to dislike, everything to admire and one last thing, The detective with the weird hairstyle, was also the creator of this marvellous romp?