The Endless

Two brothers, Aaron (Aaron Moorhead) and Justin (Justin Benson) have escaped a “UFO Death Cult” many years ago, but they still struggle to rebuild a normal life. Justin has the strongest negative memories of the cult, while Aaron’s recollections are seemingly more benign and he cannot quite recollect all the extreme cult-behaviour his brother talks about.

One day, a VHS tape arrives at their doorstep, which turns out to be from the cult. Aaron’s curiosity is piqued and he wants to go back to see the place and people again, even if just for closure. He convinces Justin to go, for just one night.

One day, a VHS tape arrives at their doorstep, which turns out to be from the cult.

When they arrive, Aaron feels kind of at home, while Justin keeps his guard up. In different ways they are both intrigued by what they find, and agree to stay another day. Strange and stranger things happen, first around them, and then to them, as a mysterious supernatural power appears to have a hold on the area. Can Aaron and Justin escape once again?

This is a low-budget movie, and it is one that works. The core concept (I won’t spill the beans, that would spoil the fun) hasn’t quite been done this way before, and it proves that concept and script are more important than budget and visual effects. The cinematography is great, and the story is well directed. It is kind of a slow burn, but I found the pacing fine, as it allows you to ponder the weirdness along with Justin and Aaron, including making up your mind about the ending.

★★★½