12 Kilometers (2016) User Reviews

A promising director!

[Matt-Canalcon · 8/10 · 27 November 2022]

It all starts with my cousin sending me a link to a video where a guy talks about the movie 12 Kilometers, a film you need to contact the director by private message and list your 3 favorite horror movies, if you pass the test... You are allowed to watch 12 Kilometers. Right from the start I think it's a pretty cool concept that makes sure the preferred audience watch your movie.

I was also really surprised by the short film, it was actually a lot of fun, Mike Pecci seems to be a director with good instincts and solid cinematic knowledge, 12KM is a weird sci-fi/horror mindtrip with great sound design and editing. Give this man an episode of Cabinet Of Curiosities, because this was very promising!

I mention Del Toro's Cabinet of Curiosities because this is something that could very well exist in the anthology that was released this October, it's like an attack to the senses and the brain. He uses some inventive imagery and editing tricks to melt your brain and I was all-in for that. The actors in the short are all very competent, I feel like Mike Pecci made the best use of its budget this is why I'm curious to see what he could do with a bigger budget and creative freedom.

Strongly recommend trying out this experience.

All positives have been well said by others, so...

[shadowolyog · 6/10 · 7 October 2018]

I agree with alot of the reviews around what was done so well in this film so I would like to critise constructively as all my love for this film is highlighted by others.

The sound design and sound track at the beginning was very clear and loud at times which distracted me. Alot of the film I thought would be executed better if more of it was silent. Mostly I was not sure if what I was hearing was soundtrack or diegetic sound effects and part of the narrative.

The protagonist was unclear as I had impressions that the man we followed until the end was the antogonist. With a farely confusing but beautiful finish.

The cutaways by the microscopic photographer were beautiful with a War of the Worlds feel however I felt there was too many and got distracted.

I love the auteur feel you have to your films and the film sucessfully carries out an aesthetic and mood to it.

Fantastic concept and production

[dxchannel · 7/10 · 21 January 2019]

First I want to say this film looks fantastic. The cinematography and production design were beautiful and amazing. It did a good job of setting up the atmosphere.

The concept is really cool, and I really want to know more.

I didn't really love the ending, I'm not sure how it connected with the rest of the story and the 'monster' in the hole, though I suppose we'll know more when the full movie comes out.

See you in theaters!

What if Tarkovsky and Carpenter made a movie?

[charlesgates-1 · 9/10 · 16 August 2018]

Mike Peccis 12KM is an atmospheric spookfest that harkens back to the days of showing less and telling more, and man is it spooky. I don;t know what it is that;s 12km's down that hole but it scared the hell out of me. The story and acting are amazing and the cinematography is beautiful, reminiscent of The Thing and Stalker. This short film is a must see and I'm hoping hollywood takes notice. 9\10

Symbolic Exploration of Scientific Ambition, Ethical Boundaries, and Grief

[sheryaj-01112 · 8/10 · 4 August 2023]

"12Km" presents a layered narrative that combines cautionary insights into unchecked scientific ambition and the complex journey of grief and loss. The researchers' relentless pursuit of knowledge, represented by the headphones and wires, mirrors humanity's insatiable thirst to control the unknown. Their disregard for ethical boundaries and warnings mirrors the perils of overstepping natural limits(they do not understand English that is how it was supposed to be yet they keep insisting to listen , leading to a catastrophic outcome. The ominous dark liquid that invades bodies and minds serves as a powerful symbol of the unintended consequences of tampering with forces beyond comprehension. This liquid could also be a metaphor for the overwhelming nature of grief, paralleling the emotional void left by the father's death. The transformation of character into the dark liquid underlines both the consequences of scientific arrogance and the transformative process of grief. The son's journey, from confronting unresolved emotions to his eventual transformation, signifies the integration of loss into his identity. Thus, the film crafts an intricate allegory that underscores the dangers of scientific hubris while exploring the depths of human emotions in the face of profound loss.

Something darkly amazing

[menorman-05991 · 10/10 · 27 August 2017]

I recently had the extremely fortunate chance to watch Mike Pecci's short film "12 Kilometres" I'm a very well seasoned horror film addict! So I went into this film with my mind wide open, My mind was blown!!! From the opening scene Mike takes you into his world of breathless lighting manipulation and a sound that grips you. In a very small amount of time the characters felt very believable, the story was simply very gripping (this must become a feature film, I need to know more!!) the special effects were beautifully unnerving. Mike Pecci has done something very exciting with 12 Kilometres. Definitely something to look out for.

Michael

Worth a watch

[andrewmiles-98383 · 6/10 · 15 October 2023]

First thanks to Mike for the password to watch this. I did enjoy this short , but I wanted some additional understanding of what's happening or something to provide some closure to the end of the film. The ending seemed more abrupt than I expected. By the time there seemed to be some introduction to the dark presence from the deep, then it just ends and goes to credits.

The atmosphere and acting were all great and I can't wait to see more from this director. I just felt like this was more like the opening 20+ minutes of a show or movie than a short film. If a full feature of this premise came out I would definitely watch that!!!!

Truly original film.

[hellamatic13 · 8/10 · 21 October 2018]

This short is a true work of art. It's a fresh, original idea sprung from great influences. I had watched the trailers and seen the promos for this but it doesn't prepare you, unlike most modern movies that give it all away in 2 minutes. From the start this one gets under your skin, you're thown into a plot you just want to know more about. The score is fantastic, achieving it's goal at providing tension and unease. Performances are top notch, from snarky to conniving to emotional, it's all there. True professionals made this one, and it deserves a full length release. I can't wait.

Atmospheric horror short

[LucasDiercouff · 7/10 · 19 March 2019]

Thanks to Mike Pecci for letting me take a look at his topnotch production. Incredibly visual atmosphere and great performances from some underused talent. What I was really missing though was any coherent identity or motivation of the project that unearths this dark force. It is unclear what they even found. It's unfortunate because you feel that with all this invested dread and dwelling curiously in this mire that you should know more. The conclusion had me at a loss since you have an awkward father/son relationship put into question that seems out of place because we really don't understand their relationship dynamic at all. All in all, a beautiful and tense short that really suffers from some missed story opportunity.

No point

[cmitt-18881 · 3/10 · 28 November 2022]

Definitely creepy but had not plot and made you have no attachment to any characters. Also explained nothing that was going on. And apparently this has a requirement of number for characters so here is a bunch of auto fill... getting the word of a person that I know is a character that I know of and that is the reason I don't don't like the term and that I am a person that is a character and that is a character I don't like the way that people are treated by people that are treated and I am a human and that I have to respect that and that I have a lot to do and that is not my job to do what I'm supposed do you want me as an actor but you know how I do you know how to be a character.

12km..more depth than it's title?

[ameberhard · 8/10 · 29 November 2022]

This film is like a paper cut; deep, sharp, and begging to be ripped open.

I want more.

Fantastic lighting and movement create an atmosphere of angst and unsettling build-up that leads us all down a path that is relatable yet rejectable because at some point we've all been there but loath the experience..and this creates a want a need for a deeper understanding of what's really going on in this film. I can see how your own fears or inadequacys are revealed through the horrifying story build-up and plot twists that are to come.

Mike has done a fantastic job of combining an original story, great camera work and viewer self psychology. You truly get out of this film what you put into it.

Would make a nice TV series

[gxxxzy · 7/10 · 9 December 2022]

1. The concept of "sound of the earth" is really cool and interesting, a tv series could definitely be based off this. It's a shame, but also an opportunity, that the viewer is left wanting more of it. It's a bit like the old myth of the sirens/mermaids luring sailors to their death with their singing. In 12KM's case this idea is brought to the next level, not only this sound can influence people's will-power, but it can mutate their cells genetically and it also has a physical manifestation: a black liquid/goo.

2. Which leads me to point 2. I have been extremely frustrated by the 2 recent Venom movies. They could have benefitted so much from a similar cosmic horror perspective! As some fans might remember, venom symbiotes react to sound as well. Unlike the black goo from 12KM they are afraid of certain frequencies; but if that is the case, wouldn't it be possible that there could be a sound that might empower them? 12KM would make such a thrilling origin story tv series for Venom. Not only it would sell a lot, but it would become a psychological and cosmic horror classic!

I'm sorry Mike if this review sounds in any way superficial, but I did really enjoy your work and I'm sure it can e developed in so many creative and amazing ways.

Strong 2

[capierocks · 2/10 · 1 December 2022]

I feel like all the gatekeeping Mike Pecci is doing for this short film gave it so much more hype than it was worth. Unclear meanings, Felt very vague and short like there was a backstory we were supposed to already know before watching...

Well produced but that's about it. It felt a lot like Cabinet Of Curiosities by Guillermo Del Toro, which is a solid 5/10

The build-up was decent, I was excited for the plot twist--or big reveal and it feels like i got nothing in the end. The film was too short to get to know any of the characters, so you don't feel much attachment to them. The movie ends and you're just like "welp i guess that was it"

Also the high-pitched sounds during this movie really hurt my ears--- made it hard for me to focus.

Love it!

[clk264-649-716463 · 9/10 · 28 July 2023]

"12KM" is a solid thriller that leaves a lot to the viewer and not a lot is explained. But, that is the charm of this wonderfully shot and sound mixed thriller (or is it a dark drama?).

I don't know if it's possible to spoil this movie, because that would imply I understood it: which I didn't.

To say that you understood "12 km," I think, defeats the purpose of the movie. I believe it is the filmmaker's decision to leave the movie open minded that it is to be interpreted by the viewer. That's what they believe they just witnessed.

Don't get me wrong: it's not a gimmick, it is a very good movie. I just really have no idea how to review a movie like this. I am very much interested in knowing what the meaning behind everything was, or if there is a feature length version of this that will be made.

Kudos , Mike Pecci!

Great film.

[jenellwatersb · 10/10 · 15 June 2023]

I enjoyed the process of getting permission to access the movie. Then was THOROUGHLY satisfied with the movie. The continuous build up was greatly appreciated and the score accompanied the plot and the overall tone of the movie BEAUTIFULLY! The movie successfully portrayed a setting of tightness and claustrophobia. The director managed to convey his vision vividly on screen. Pecci, captivated us in a short period of time while leaving plenty of room for interpretation! There are so many aspects of the cinematography that should be studied in film schools! The yellow color scale and the close up camera effects gave the film an uneasy feeling throughout its runtime.

Incredible

[wnzpvqxcv · 8/10 · 30 November 2022]

First off, the marketing was amazing. I am not big on short films but this was perfect. No fluff. Lite backstory...really wild. Usually a movie is 50% Bs and this jumped right into it. The visuals were crazy. The fact that is was in subtitles and the character sounded and spoke a foreign Eastern Block language....it gave me the feel that it was some backwoods griming Russian basement which was very wild. The filmmaker sucked me right in and I couldn't wait to see what the heck was going on. Not only that but the way you had to search and hear from the filmmaker to watch the movie was really cool. I feel like I am invested. I really enjoyed it.

Idea is great

[lestatdsf · 7/10 · 30 November 2022]

First of all marketing for this was beautifully done Sound designer did really great job Idea to tell a story about Kola superdeed borehole is interesting if you know the myth that surround it Oil metaphor is great that is something that will end us Russian language in movie was a nice punch What dissatisfies me is that it is not a horror movie from my point of view Horror as a genre is changing evolving as everything else so I was disappointed and confused to be honest It's more sci-fi drama But all in all good job.

I hope this will be a great movie in the end thank you for letting us see your work.

This deserves to be more

[devagaresempre-7-45181 · 9/10 · 29 November 2022]

I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I'd love to see more. I really appreciate when the genre of horror doesn't stick to jump scares and overexplained narrative, but very much like all forms of art, seeks to provoke a feeling and play with one's traumas.

It doesn't matter that you don't get spoonfed a linear and cohesive narrative when the scariest parts of fear are the ones your own traumas seep into and try to fill those gaps. We will always be able to cook up much more horrifying 'truths' with our own imagination than any movie can depict.

I hope this turns into a feature film or even better a series, because it looked so damn good!

Take the good with the mediocre

[joshuanguerrero · 6/10 · 2 December 2018]

After watching 12KM, my main take away was this: Mike Pecci has a great eye for visuals. I think he knows exactly what he wants and is able to communicate that effectively with his team, because the visuals here are on par, if not better, then a lot of modern shows and movies. That is no easy feat considering this is an independent production that came out years ago.

I think where this film fails is from a narrative/writing standpoint. The dialogue feels unnatural at times. Certain elements of the plot are vague to a fault. Obviously, we as an audience don't want to be spoon fed, but we also want to care about what we are watching. This film could definitely have benefited from another pair of eyes on the script.

Overall, this is a success in visual storytelling that will absolutely give a lot of inspiration to up and coming filmmakers. It's also a lesson to those same up and comers to make sure that the audience is able to connect with the characters, or at the very least, the general premise. A creepy atmosphere, solid performances and epic visuals cannot make up for a lack of connection.

not what i expected

[dasmcmaniac · 3/10 · 4 December 2022]

I've seen quite a few horror movies in my live. There were good and bad. This one is one of the bad ones for me. Because in my opinion this is not a horror film. It's more of a kind of art-house "mystery" thing. I can't understand all the excitement about the movie via Instagram. The story that was told was not exciting enough,really thin. The acting of the actors were ok, but nothing more. The sound, music and the Picture were good but not very exciting . The whole thing didn't knock my socks off.

I cannot make a recommendation for this flick. Maybe Mike Pecci's next movie will convince me...wait and see.

proof that good things can be done in a short time

[mehemmeda · 10/10 · 27 April 2023]

Sometimes you have nightmares at night and you want morning to come as soon as possible. I had the same feeling in this movie. It was like a nightmare. Eventually you wake up suddenly and everything is actually a dream. We should give a standing ovation to the film and its producer who made us feel this feeling in just half an hour👍.

The tension was high at the end of the movie. For 30 minutes, you fully feel the tension and mystery. I would like to thank Mike Pecci for squeezing a production that would have taken at least 2 hours if someone else did it into 30 minutes and allowing me to watch it too.

How was the movie?

[dibanshubain · 7/10 · 3 January 2023]

I was delight to watch 12km movie and the dark theme i loved it but there is a catch in story that the story doesn't let you tk see the in constant somerime it's boring but overall i loved to watch till it end then i thought that i was wrong in last i was realize that what a movie and it's sorter length movie stick the people's whoever watch these. And sometimes in movie i was shocked in moment's that's horror and the actor's are so good to act that there is nothing tk catch any actor that he or she was not doing well in thies movie but the not have so much horror elements that i realy fear on thies movie.

Well produced, bad storytelling

[albertoruizaraujo · 5/10 · 29 November 2022]

At the beginning of the film I was very curious about what I was about to watch, buy the "story" was not what I was expecting. I think "horror" films are one of the hardest to do, but if you can't create a connection between the characters and the consumer, it will be tough to scare them or even keep them in front of the TV.

At the end of the film, I was even more confused and with the disappointment of having spent 30 minutes in something I was not expecting (in a bad way) because of the "horror" that was just not there.

A couple of jumpscares and very loud and noisy sounds are not enough to do a GOOD horror movie.

I will sum up that there's a lot of potential, I liked a lot of the things about the movie, but I couldn't connect with the story/characters and that's a #1 rule for horror (or films in general)

Intense and Terrifying

[derickpieter · 9/10 · 30 October 2018]

Before watching this short, I had high expectations. I had heard (and red) many reviews before hand. This film exceeded all of that. It was scary, it was funny, it was complicated, and very, very well executed.

If this movie was a giant jigsaw puzzle, not a single piece was missing. Love the style, score and professional value. Great potential for a feature, or even a tv series. A must watch for everyone with a little love for tension and horror.

Suspenseful short reminiscent of The Thing

[jesskbarnett · 9/10 · 9 January 2019]

Horror isn't dead -- at least the genre isn't! Mike Pecci has done a great job with this short film, following in the footsteps of John Carpenter (The Thing) while adding his own blend of suspense to the horror category.