Nerdly » ‘Aftermath’ Review

18th Jan2024

‘Aftermath’ Review

by James Rodrigues

Stars: Fruzsina Nagy, Edward Apeagyei, Eric Roberts, Sally Kirkland, James Duval, Péter Inoka | Written by József Gallai, Derek C. Block | Directed by Gergö Elekes, József Gallai

The latest work from Hungarian directors Gergö Elekes and József Gallai, a voiceover opens Aftermath to establish this world where humanity is on the verge of an important change. A subsequent interview may reveal that more tests are needed, yet it remains clear that humanity is close to a vital medical discovery.

The next scene introduces a distressed Kate (Fruzsina Nagy), who leaves her home with no intention of returning. Upon receiving a call from her irate boss, her frustrations are shared through expository dialogue regarding how she is the only employee who has consistently worked on a major project. In a moment that feels glaringly artificial, Kate takes her eye off the road and is in an accident.

Awakening in a forest with no memories, Kate is shocked to find violent men in masks shooting at her. As she is rescued by a stranger named Bubba (Edward Apeagyei), the pair discover mysteries about the situation while trying to avoid the armed hunters on Kate’s trail, determined to find a way out of this nightmare to return home.

An unusual feeling in the forest is conveyed through minimalistic ways, such as a distorted sense of time or how the villains are under the orders of a holographic Eric Roberts. Strange decisions hinder such elements, be it the dim lighting within some scenes, or the distracting lines of expository ADR.

Despite the best efforts of the cast, it can be a struggle to buy into the performances when there appears to be little feeling in the line deliveries. It does not help how the story feels as though it drags its feet until the obvious revelation arises about the apparently unconnected elements, although the stronger moments arrive when the story reveals itself as being about regrets and holding onto loved ones. While there are promising ideas within Aftermath, it feels let down by the execution.