Rent-A-Pal - 2020 - 7/10
Neither horror, nor psychological horror, but a view of loneliness and deception.
Set in the 1990’s, David tries video dating. Meaning looking at VHS profiles.
Nothing works. He’s 40. He lives with his mother, who has dementia.
Potential doors have closed, and he feels life crushing him.
By chance, he picks a tape out of the impulse basket at the dating service.
The tape is interactive, host “Andy” talks, asks questions, pauses for responses.
Weird, thinks David, pathetic. Yet, for one lonely, depressed, a life empty, the imaginary friend can seem more.
Low budget film has engrossing performances, but this may upset those who feel forsaken.
Star Trek Next Gen fans, this should intrigue.
