Hubie, everyone.

This movie was a ton of fun. If you're into 80's horror comedy, this is for you. Like a Willy Wonka for Satanists of sorts. I was wondering how the character of Onyx would translate to long form content like this, but it worked well.

All of the performances were spectacular. Especially from Rivkah Reyes and Olivia Taylor Dudley. Everyone knew what kind of world they were building in this movie and they played the parts wonderfully.

This isn't going to be for everyone. I'm sure some folks will not connect with this style of humor, or the character of Onyx at all. I think the people who do connect will absolutely love it. I'm glad Sundance did online screenings so I could catch this early.

Also, any movie that scores Ralph Ineson's amazing voice is always worth a watch.

Gonkers.

"Onyx The Fortuitous And The Talisman Of Souls"

written & directed by Andrew Bowser starring Andrew Bowser & Jeffrey Combs

Beginning as a series of YouTube comedy shorts, the character of Onyx has developed a unique mythology as well as a devoted fanbase. In order to secure financing for his independent film, writer/director/star Bowser turned to crowdfunding website Kickstarter where he was able to raise $610,467. When compared to big Hollywood blockbusters, that amount is small potatoes, but with that small budget, he was able to create a film that looks and feels like it cost 10× that amount. The makeup, costumes and creature effects are all great. They pale in comparison to their big budget brethren, but this film was designed to look as if it was made in the heyday of 1980s creature films (i.e. "Gremlins" or "Fright Night") and at that they succeeded beautifully.

As of this writing (10/19/2023), the movie has played at many film festivals, including the prestigious SUNDANCE, but for now is playing in theaters one night only as part of a FATHOM EVENTS screening. The audience I saw this with all seemed to enjoy themselves. They laughed at all the right moments and seemed moved by the sadder ones. Overall, I would say it was a success with that crowd. I hope the film finds its audience as it is something I think many people will enjoy.

I only discovered Andrew's work a few years ago, but always enjoyed not only Onyx but his short films like "Little Willy". This film was funnier and more charming than I hoped it could be. I truly hope this is a first of at least a trilogy (I'm an 80's kid, Trilogy's are a must, lol) The entire cast is great, the practical effects are awesome and the soundtrack is wonderful. As an artist starting to see a project begin that has been in the planning stages for years, this was very inspiring to watch as well. Definitely watch this on Sundance this week! If not, check it out when it comes out eventually-someone better pick this film up, it's gonna have a great following and get great reviews...idunno.