Lace Crater

Lace Crater is a 2015 American independent horror film directed and written by Harrison Atkins. It stars Lindsay Burdge, Peter Vack, Jennifer Kim, and Chase Williamson. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and was later released in limited theatres and on video-on-demand.

The movie revolves around a young woman named Ruth (Lindsay Burdge) who, after a break-up with her boyfriend, decides to spend a weekend with her friends in a beach house in the Hamptons. During a late-night swim, Ruth encounters a mysterious, ghostly figure that she later comes to realize is a ghost named Michael (Peter Vack), who died of AIDS in the 1980s. Ruth begins to develop a romantic relationship with Michael, despite his being a ghost, and soon finds herself experiencing strange, hallucinogenic side effects from their encounters.

One of the most compelling aspects of Lace Crater is its examination of sexuality and intimacy between humans and ghosts. Ruth's journey of self-discovery is depicted in a way that is both haunting and beautiful, as she grapples with her desires and the reality of her situation. Her relationship with Michael is tinged with sadness and tragedy, as he is forced to come to terms with his own mortality and the fact that he can never truly be with Ruth in the way that he desires.

The film also explores themes of friendship and identity, as Ruth's friends struggle with their own personal demons and the sudden appearance of a ghost in their midst. The tension between Ruth and her friends is palpable, as they struggle to come to terms with what is happening to her and their differing opinions on how to handle the situation.

At its core, Lace Crater is a deeply human story that is complemented by an eerie, atmospheric tone and a haunting score. The film manages to balance horror and romance in a way that few films are able to, creating a unique viewing experience that will leave audiences both unsettled and heartbroken.

Lindsay Burdge delivers a standout performance as Ruth, capturing the character's vulnerability and inner turmoil with an understated yet powerful performance. Peter Vack's portrayal of Michael is equally impressive, despite the character's limited screen time, as he manages to imbue the ghost with a sense of warmth and humanity that is both heartbreaking and uplifting.

Overall, Lace Crater is a daring and genre-defying film that is sure to resonate with audiences looking for something that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. Its exploration of love, loss, and the human condition is done with an impressive level of nuance and subtlety, making this a must-watch for fans of indie horror and romantic dramas alike.