PopHorror Let's Get Scared
A few years back, PopHorror had the opportunity to review Matthew Packman’s feature film Morbid Colors. We are fans of this film, and you may read our review HERE. Recently, we had an opportunity to review the next film in the series, Real Cool Time. The film was written and directed by Matthew Packman. The film stars Lanae Hyneman, Kara Gray, Alice Shen and Eric Jones. I was intrigued when I saw the trailer, so I definitely jumped at the chance to review.
What did I think of this film? Read on to find out!
Synopsis for Real Cool Time
A stubborn, unwelcome journalist’s late-night visit to the home of a haunted musician reveals dark secrets and whets deadly appetites.
My Thoughts
I will start off by saying you do not need to see Morbid Colors to understand this film. This is definitely a standalone story, so don’t let that deter you from watching. However, Morbid Colors is currently streaming on Tubi for free, be sure to check it out! Real Cool Time is about 25 minutes and it packs a lot in those 25 minutes.
The film starts out with a quote from Iggy Pop, which flawlessly sets up the punk rock vibe of this film. The film is set in one location and it is the conflict of two people that drives the story.
Devin (Lanae Hyneman) has returned from a European tour with her band that has brought them some fame and attention. Most of the attention though is stories of Devin having some tussles with other musicians. Devin has now gone into hiding allegedly working on writing songs for the bands second album.
Juliya (Alice Shen) is a local music journalist who tracks down Devin to get the scoop and feels she is entitled to an interview with Devin. Juliya is persistent and doesn’t give up after many refusals from Devin. Even after Devin warns her “she needs to leave”, Juliya doesn’t. This is the conflict that fuels the entire film.
Without too many spoilers, Devin asks Juliya to leave because she is about to pass out. It is there that the film gets wild, in a good way. What happened during the European tour? What happens to Devin and Juliya? You’ll have to watch the film to find out.
The film is shot well, visually appealing and the apartment was a perfect setting for this story. The characters are portrayed amazingly, the actors stepped up and owned their respective roles. The story was well paced and the reveal was perfect.
Final Thoughts
This film is polished with strong characters that are the backbone and bring the story to life. The actors are perfectly cast. The reveal is worth it. I will say though, if you haven’t seen Morbid Colors, I’d actually watch Real Cool Time first and then Morbid Colors. I feel if you watch it in that order, you will get a bigger surprise on the reveal.
