What he created will destroy him.|Sep. 23, 2022|Portugal|107 Min.|R
Genre: Crime;Drama;Thriller
Description: Andrew Hunt’s *The Infernal Machine* delves into the core elements of a psychological thriller: a tormented protagonist, a gradually unraveling mystery tied to his past, and an ominous force revealed at the climax. The film begins with a slow, tense buildup, leading to a suspenseful peak, though the ultimate revelation feels underwhelming. Guy Pearce shines as a reclusive character, reminiscent of Salinger’s style, who has lived in isolation for decades. His emotional breakdown is compelling to watch. Adapted from *The Hilly Earth Society* podcast, the film excels in creating anticipation through its meticulous setup, but the narrative falters with a lackluster ending.
The story follows Bruce Cogburn (Guy Pearce), who has crafted a quiet, secluded life to distance himself from the world due to the controversy surrounding his only book. His solitude is shattered when he begins receiving disturbing letters and packages from a mysterious admirer, William DuKent. Frustrated, Cogburn travels 14 miles from his remote home to a phone booth to confront DuKent. Despite leaving messages pleading for the letters to stop, Cogburn’s agitation grows as the relentless correspondence continues.
Cogburn’s isolation stems from the tragic consequences of his book, *The Infernal Machine*. Twenty-five years prior, teenager Dwight Tufford (Alex Pettyfer) committed a mass shooting at a university tower in Knoxville, claiming the book convinced him that God views human mortality like falling dominoes. Driven by guilt, Cogburn’s life is now marked by seclusion, alcoholism, PTSD-induced nightmares, and a gun he keeps to ward off trespassers.
The film explores themes of guilt, isolation, and the lingering impact of one’s actions, though its execution falls short of its promising premise.
Cast director: Andrew Hunt
Cast actor: Guy Pearce, Alice Eve, Jeremy Davies, Alex Pettyfer, Iris Cayatte, Rachel De Fontes, Ana Lopes, Georgia Goodman, Bella Alexandras, Gary Anthony Stennette
Original name: The Infernal Machine