Iron Lung
- Gus Keller
- 3 hours ago
- 1 min read
Despite intriguing foundations, Iron Lung is underdeveloped. It introduces a high concept rooted in existential themes. However, little is fleshed out, so it resembles an extended rough draft. A vague backstory plus broad motivations are provided to the protagonist, yet his lacking internal conflict suppresses any sense of growth in his choices. Exacerbating this superficiality, the plot goes in circles. Together, these components create a repetitive thinness. Although the acting contributes intensity as well as (wooden) vulnerability, emotions are mostly one-note. There's clunky dialogue, cliches, and an unreliable narrator. Thus, Iron Lung is a premise without a story.
Iron Lung locks in a tone plus a framing device, but ultimately becomes monotonous. Despite fleeting composition, its imagery's desaturation and minimal movement can feel sluggish. In need of momentum, structure, or brevity, the editing is a major flaw. Conversely, a sci-fi atmosphere alongside subjective punctuations elevate its soundscape. The music isn't particularly memorable, yet strikes a harsh industrial style. Though limited, its production design establishes analog technology as well as dystopian futurism. The cast hinges on a famous non-actor. Cheap but passable prosthetics and makeup are supplied via its effects. Overall, Iron Lung needed more refinement.
Writing: 3/10
Direction: 4/10
Cinematography: 6/10
Acting: 4/10
Editing: 2/10
Sound: 8/10
Score/Soundtrack: 6/10
Production Design: 6/10
Casting: 4/10
Effects: 6/10
Overall Score: 4.9/10
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