“US” (2019)

Us

THIS IS NOT A REVIEW

When you look into the abyss, a curiosity spurns you to gaze deeper and deeper into the black, pulling you into the void. As you adjust, the dark forms swirl and shape, motionless and perpetual. One could swear that the longer they stare, beautifully drawn, vibrant, and intricately composed stories begin to unfold. If you could tether yourself to your seat, a safe place, would you fight the darkness enveloping you or would you look around and enjoy playing in the unknown?

The dark is the only place that light must escape. Searching through it ignites a flame inside that burns away everything in its path. You become bold as all you touch turns to ashes, ignorant of the shadows cast.

A guide does not always lead but suggests a direction for your mind. Explore the jagged and pressured solitude, staring at the backs of those who’ve explored the expanse before you. Reach out, grasp each other’s hand and wander towards the edge. What lies beyond is you, staring back into the pool of your owns eyes, fearing what you may discover will horrify, compelling the most dangerous question of them all: “why?”

There is no turning back the wheel of time. There is no end but the bottom of the deep where the twisted reflection of yourself sifting through the ashes of your wake, ragged, raw, and smiling awaits. A flash of gold at your neck --just out of reach-- sends chills running down your spine and suddenly a thought creeps from the back of your mind. Sweat collects on your brow as you force it down but it’s too late. Your eyes are open wide and you suspect you were never safe at all.

If you happen to be there, in the dark, staring at your own hideous smile, take a moment and laugh. If you don’t, you might cry, you might scream, but more importantly, the terror may consume you.

RATING: “A”