Orbs: They Are Among Us

Orbs: They Are Among Us is a riveting independent science fiction thriller released in 2013 directed by David R. Watson. This atmospheric film stars Patrick G. Keenan, Christy Johnson, and Warren Ray. It blends elements of extraterrestrial mystery, along with a touch of conspiracy theory, and touches on the underlying question of human existence and our place in the universe.

The story examines the intriguing and often controversial subject of orbs - mysterious lights that seem to hover and move autonomously, which some believe to be otherworldly entities. The film's primary premise revolves around orbs being not just mere figments of people's imagination, but actual emissaries from an alien civilization — thoughtfully illustrating the always fascinating question of whether we are alone in the universe or not.

The film opens up with the lead character, Marcus Post (Patrick G. Keenan), who is an astrophysicist working at the Millennial Observatory in Arizona. He begins researching orbs just as his life starts becoming unravelled. Post's journey goes from academic curiosity to full-blown obsession as his investigations reveal more and more about the enigmatic phenomena.

Teaming with a sceptical journalist, Gina Thompson (Christy Johnson), they delve deep into the orb mystery exploring the scientific, philosophical, and spiritual implications. Thompson's initial skepticism gradually transforms into interest and intrigue as their exploration deepens and they start to discover undeniable evidence for the orbs’ existence and their potential extraterrestrial origins.

The character of Dewey Turner played by Warren Ray, adds to the intricate plot of the movie. A secretive man and possible government agent, Turner possesses critical information about the orbs and their interactions with humanity. His character, while shadowy and mysterious, adds depth to the narrative as he holds a key to the many secrets surrounding the orbs.

The film painstakingly weaves together a delicate balance between authentic science theory, the high-stakes drama associated with a potential alien visitation, and the thrill of the investigation. It's a step away from the typical 'alien invasion' trope and instead presents a tensely intelligent and thought-provoking exploration of our universe and the possible links to other forms of life.

Further, Orbs: They Are Among Us is well known for its clever use of dialogue, immersing the audience in the academic discourse about extraterrestrial life, highlighting the real-life theories and debates about alien existence. Visual effects are also used to good measure in providing eeriness and intrusiveness of these foreign entities. The orbs are presented not as sinister threats but as enigmatic entities, their purpose and intentions maintaining the suspense throughout the film.

The performances by the cast, particularly Patrick G. Keenan and Christy Johnson, bring authenticity to their roles that ground the fantastical elements of the story. Their on-screen chemistry is perfectly matched to the narratives intelligent conversation and intense speculation, building tension in a realistically unfolding investigation.

The atmosphere of the film is also a standout element, the mystery of the orbs is mirrored by an overall haunting ambiance that pervades the movie. Supported by the film's score, it effectively invokes a sense of dread and awe, mirroring the characters' anxieties and fascination about the unknown.

One of the stand out features of the film remains its creative storytelling. The director, David R. Watson, does an exceptional job of transforming what many consider a fringe paranormal phenomenon into a full-fledged, suspense-filled sci-fi thriller.

In summary, Orbs: They Are Among Us is a uniquely constructed, theory driven, science fiction film exploring the possibilities of the vast universe and life expectancy beyond Earth. It serves as both an engaging narrative with relatable characters and an examination of humanity's fascination with the vast unknown wonders of the cosmos. The movie is a must-watch for enthusiasts of the genre who prefer a more cerebral and investigative approach to their Sci-Fi selection.