Coherence

Coherence is a gripping and thought-provoking American science fiction thriller movie released in 2013. Directed by James Ward Byrkit in his directorial debut, the movie features a stellar cast including Emily Baldoni, Maury Sterling, and Nicholas Brendon.

The film is an outstandingly crafted narrative that examines the nature of reality, the complexities of human relationships, and the unpredictability of circumstances. It stretches the boundaries of its genre while challenging its audience to stay engaged and keep pace as the story unfolds with increasing intensity.

Set over a single night, Coherence begins as eight old friends gather for a dinner on the night a comet is due to pass overhead. The ensemble includes an array of personalities, from the emotionally fragile ballet dancer Em, played by Emily Baldoni, the affable actor Mike, portrayed by Nicholas Brendon, to the amiable Kevin, enacted by Maury Sterling. The evening is filled with banter, anecdotes, and nostalgic stories, a typical reunion of old friends.

However, as the comet passes close to earth, things start to take an eerie turn. Cell phones shatter on their own, the power goes out, and the only house with electricity in the neighborhood seems more than eerie. What initially feels like the aftermath of a minor earthquake or a simple blackout soon takes on a much more unsettling dimension.

Coherence cleverly parlays its concept into an exploration of quantum physics and parallel realities. It masterfully uses the scientific theory of Schrodinger's cat - the idea that any number of conflicting outcomes can exist simultaneously - to construct a series of mind-boggling, reality-bending scenarios that intrude upon this ordinary suburban dinner party.

One of the movie's most appealing aspects is its masterful blend of science fiction with elements of horror and suspense. More than a sci-fi movie, Coherence serves as a character-driven drama that examines how individuals respond to extreme stress and uncertainty. It lays bare the dynamics of long-standing friendships as the characters grapple with inexplicable occurrences—presenting a thrilling study on human nature, brimming with jealousy, love, betrayal, and survival.

The stars of the movie are without a doubt the powerful performances by the ensemble cast. Known for their roles in various TV shows and movies, all the actors bring depth to their characters' roles, thereby contributing to the escalating tension. Emily Baldoni shines as the film's primary protagonist, her subtle performance artfully capturing her character's growing awareness and fear. Maury Sterling and Nicholas Brendon are equally impressive in their roles, bringing their characters to life with depth and believability.

Visually, Coherence is equally compelling, shot almost entirely within the constraint of a single house, eliciting a feeling of closeness and confinement that sharply contrasts with the expansive, boundless chaos unfolding outside. Its pace is fast, yet balanced, blending drama and suspense in a way that is guaranteed to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

But perhaps the most distinctive aspect of Coherence is its narrative structure. Instead of a conventional script, Byrkit opted to use a 12-page outline, forcing much of the dialogue to be improvised by the cast. Despite this unconventional approach, the story remains consistent and does an excellent job of maintaining an atmosphere of uncertainty and dread.

On top of a compelling narrative and excellent performances, the movie is packed with symbolism and metaphors that provide plenty of food for thought long after the film is over. Without giving too much away, Coherence serves as a commentary on the paradox of choice, the nonlinear nature of time, and the fallibility of memory, issues that are as metaphysical as they are scientific.

In conclusion, Coherence is a film that merges the boundaries of genre and defies the expectations typically associated with science fiction. It's charged with suspense, peppered with existential questions, and drenched in a unsettling, surreal atmosphere. This is much more than a mere thriller or horror film; it is an exploration of identity and reality, a psychological journey that makes us question our own perceptions of the world around us.