In the sleepy town of Cayuga, New Mexico, a simple evening takes a turn into the extraordinary. The Vast of Night (2019) opens with a tantalizing mystery as young switchboard operator Fay Crocker, portrayed by Sierra McCormick, and radio DJ Everett Sloan (Jake Horowitz) encounter a strange, unexplainable frequency. What unfolds is an engaging blend of nostalgia and suspense that transports viewers back to a time when the skies were filled with rumors of flying saucers and extraterrestrial encounters.
Directed by Andrew Patterson and co-written under the pseudonym James Montague alongside Craig W. Sanger, this film was crafted on a micro-budget of $700,000. Patterson financed the movie himself, showcasing a remarkable dedication to his vision, which he later discussed with IndieWire. The film’s production may have been modest, but its storytelling ambitions are anything but.
What sets The Vast of Night apart is its ability to evoke the charm and eerie allure of 1950s America. It serves as a love letter to an era when tales of UFOs gripped the nation. One audience reviewer highlighted this sentiment perfectly, describing the film as an “absolutely stunning film with performances to match.” The user praised the boldness of Patterson’s directorial debut, particularly the long shots that exhibit faith in the actors and the whip-smart writing.
Another viewer remarked on the film’s captivating nature, saying it kept their eyes “glued to the screen with curiosity.” They expressed mixed feelings about its ending, wishing the journey could have continued. This sentiment resonates with many fans who find themselves deeply immersed in its world. “The Vast of Night is a love letter to the Twilight Zone and sci-fi nerds (like me!)” another fan noted, celebrating how it leverages its small budget to create an engaging narrative.
Visually, the film exudes a vintage elegance. As one critic pointed out, it tells a “wonderful tale of mystery,” using simple yet masterfully executed cinematography to craft a gripping atmosphere. A grounded story intertwined with a celestial ambition keeps the audience engaged, even if some felt the pacing might deter younger viewers accustomed to the rapid-fire tempo of modern cinema. Yet, as the narrative unfolds, it does so with grace rather than haste.
With an impressive 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, The Vast of Night has garnered positive critical reception, affirming its status as a hidden gem in contemporary cinema. Its haunting melodies and atmospheric sound design echo the classic sci-fi narratives of yesteryear, making it both a nostalgic experience and a contemporary marvel.
Now streaming on Netflix, this film invites audiences to dive into its intriguing mysteries. As we explore the nuances of storytelling in film, titles like this remind us of the art of slow and steady storytelling in a world eager for instant gratification. The implications of its reception may just pave the way for more innovative ventures in the realm of independent cinema. For those intrigued by the works of visionary directors, similar to the innovative storytelling of Oppenheimer or the compelling films of Christopher Nolan, The Vast of Night deserves a prominent place on your watchlist.