All Eyes (2022)

Corporate podcaster Allen (Jasper Hammer) hosts a show called U.S. Sane that features conspiracy theorists and an odd assortment of characters. Allen chooses his subjects from a mail container labeled “Box of Freaks.” After one of the guests commits suicide during a live broadcast, Allen loses his job and faces possible litigation. Allen’s producer, Kim (Danielle Evon Ploeger,) brings him a story that she feels could redeem him.

A crotchety, reclusive man named Don (Ben Hall) claims that a monster covered in eyes lurks on the edge of his property. Don’s recently deceased wife was a big fan of Allen’s podcast. Don wants Allen to cover his monster story as a tribute to her even though he intensely dislikes Allen and his show.

Allen hesitantly agrees to meet with Don, who blindfolds him and takes him to his farm in the middle of nowhere. After interviewing Don for a short time, Allen doesn’t buy the story about a monster. In fact, he thinks Don might be a nutjob. But he’s intrigued enough to stick around. Soon, though, the pair form an unusual bond after a strange series of events takes place on Don’s property.

At face value, All Eyes sounds like a monster movie. But, in reality, it’s more about the relationship between Don and Allen and the way they both handle loss and despair. Interestingly, while not billed as a comedy, All Eyes contains a decent amount of humor. Most of which derives from the initial friction between the lead characters.

Obviously made for a small budget, All Eyes still delivers some solid acting. Ben Hall, who has played mostly supporting roles in the past, shines as the off-kilter Don. Jasper Hammer’s depiction of Allen keeps the viewer at arm’s length at first. He becomes much more likable as the film progresses. Since Allen acts as the viewer’s point-of-view, that’s a good thing as well as a testament to Hammer’s capable performance.

What might disappoint some viewers, though, is a lack of monster action. The majority of the movie consists of Don and Allen sharing experiences and connecting through conversations. The dialogue feels natural and things never get too talky. Still, those looking for a creature feature will come away underwhelmed. That said, the second half of the movie packs some unexpected surprises.

All Eyes possesses no major flaws. Yet, the overall story doesn’t stick the landing. As a welcome departure from the plethora of poorly written, CGI-infested independent horror films, though, All Eyes stands out as worth tracking down.