Director Hannah Macpherson doubles up on genres for her “Time Cut” sophomore effort from Netflix. Macpherson also co-writes the film’s screenplay with Michael Kennedy. In the present day, Lucy Field (Madison Bailey), A high school senior student and amateur inventor, accidentally finds a time machine and travels back to 2003, the year her sister Summer (Antonia Gentry) was murdered by an unknown killer.
The film starts with a classic slasher movie apocalyptic opening, and it is a great way to showcase Lucy’s situation; she needs to get it done fast. We soon learn that she is also a bit of a sad child to her parents, and she might have been created to take over from her big sister.
The transition between the futuristic nature of 2024 and the early 2000s is well done, so we can get a couple of nostalgic allusions for viewers who haven’t seen this movie in years. The filmmakers play on it in an ingenious cultural interplay, producing more comedy.
Madison Bailey is a strong actress with the heart and spirit of a sister who will break time. But supporting characters don’t develop at all, sometimes drawing the narrative into the heart. Even the killer was frightening, but he’s relatively flat, playing to typical horror tropes with little context or reason behind it.
“Time Cut” maintains an engaging pace throughout its runtime. However, the second act occasionally slows down, with certain narrative elements needing more development. Despite this, the film picks up momentum in its finale, dramatically raising the stakes. The climactic final battle is thrilling, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep the audience on the edge of their seats.
From a visual standpoint, “Time Cut” portrays its dual timelines. The cinematography effectively captures the essence of time travel, using dynamic camera work and striking visuals to differentiate between past and present. This angle allows viewers to immerse themselves in the intricate storyline fully. Complementing the visuals is a well-curated soundtrack, blending nostalgic 2000s pop songs with fresh, contemporary music. This combination enhances the film’s atmosphere and evokes a sense of nostalgia that resonates with the audience.
While “Time Cut” may not be a cinematic breakthrough, it successfully entertains through its engaging plot and relatable characters. The film strikes a balance that appeals to time travel enthusiasts and thriller fans, making it a compelling watch. However, those looking for a more in-depth exploration of time travel concepts may need more.
Overall, “Time Cut” serves as a solid introduction to an intriguing narrative, and it leaves the door open for potential sequels or further expansions of its unique premise, suggesting that there’s more to explore in this captivating universe.
Final Grade: B-
“Time Cut” is available to stream today on Netflix.
