Frightfest 2024: ‘The A-Frame’ Review
Stars: Johnny Whitworth, Nik Dodani, Dana Namrode, Laketa Caston | Written and Directed by Calvin Lee Reeder
The A-Frame, directed by Calvin Lee Reeder (The Procedure, The Rambler), is a sci-fi horror film that follows Donna, a musician diagnosed with bone cancer, who is faced with the prospect of losing her arm. Desperate for a cure, she becomes involved with Sam, a quantum physicist who has developed a machine that supposedly cures cancer by connecting to a subatomic universe. As Donna agrees to become his first human test subject, the experiment spirals into chaos, bringing grotesque consequences.
Reeder’s film wears its inspiration – from 80s horror classics like The Fly and Re-Animator – on its sleeve, through its use of practical effects and its exploration of mad science gone wrong, a true trope of 80s horror cinema. While the film’s horror elements are not overwhelming, the practical effects shine in the more visceral scenes, delivering a gooey, nightmarish experience.
The A-Frame is, like those 80s horrors that came before it, not afraid to be funny, but the humour is subtle, providing relief from its darker themes, particularly given its focus on a serious subject like cancer. Reeder’s decision to tell the story from the perspective of the patient rather than the scientist adds a fresh twist to the familiar mad scientist narrative, making The A-Frame somewhat unique in the genre.
The film also has a brisk pacing, strong performances – especially from Dana Namerode as Donna – and its ability to balance horror, humour, and emotional depth. While it may not completely escape comparisons to earlier works, The A-Frame stands out for its inventive approach and memorable ending and distinguishes itself from its inspiration through Calvin Lee Reeder’s bold choices, including its focus on the emotional and psychological journey of its protagonist, Donna.
The film’s exploration of desperation and the ethical boundaries of science offers a fresh take on well-trodden themes. Reeder’s deft balancing of humour and horror is particularly noteworthy, as it allows the film to tackle dark subjects without becoming overwhelming. The chemistry between Dana Namerode and Johnny Whitworth further elevates the film, making the relationship between Donna and Sam both compelling and unsettling.
Reeder also brings a great visual flair to proceedings, which also merits attention, with vibrant production design and striking practical effects that harken back to the aforementioned 80s horror classics. These elements, combined with a tight 83-minute runtime, means that The A-Frame is an engaging and memorable entry into the sci-fi horror genre.
**** 4/5
The A-Frame screened as part of this year’s Frightfest London.
