A few years ago, writer-director Kelsey Egan released “Glasshouse.” As a fan of that film, I was excited to see the follow-up feature, “The Fix,” previewed at its first festival in June at the Chattanooga Film Fest in Tennessee. The story follows model Elle in a world where the air is toxic, big pharma controls who gets to breathe, and drugs come in vials. While the cast is extensive, the narrative mainly centers on Elle.
Set in a concrete jungle where even dogs wear masks, “The Fix” paints a grim picture. The rich are distinguished by their gadgets and drug supplements. A company with a shady agenda runs ads in downtown areas, promoting a new drug that promises mask-free breathing. Everyone wants it, but is it too good to be true?
“Only the chosen will breathe” – from the 2024 film, “The Fix.”
Elle’s backstory is quickly introduced, with most people in her life piling on misery in quick succession. On the anniversary of her mother’s death, she discovers her boyfriend has been dating her closest friend and overhears girls gossiping about her from a toilet stall. It’s safe to say her day isn’t going well. Yet, Elle seems most comfortable in her misery. Her attitude and general lack of empathy might make it hard for some viewers to connect with her.
“Feelings are exhausting, Gina.” – from the dystopian action body horror movie, “The Fix.”
Elle is the type of girl who doesn’t know or care about her friends’ feelings. She has no filter and, after her dad holograms in to blame her for amounting to nothing, she gets hammered. When her boyfriend Tully’s blue vial of an unreleased drug slips out of his pocket, she downs the whole lot. Unbeknownst to her, the drug contains an unspecified DNA agent.
Elle’s transformation propels the narrative enough to require investment. When the big reveal happens at the end of “The Fix,” it’s enough to keep viewers engaged.
However, “The Fix” has an ill-fitting soundtrack. The song choices rarely fit the scenes, often distracting from pivotal moments. This is especially noticeable in the first nightclub scene, where the club music fits the universe, but the songs used to underpin character motives do not. They give Elle a rock edge, which doesn’t suit her character. Elle’s character arc also lacks emotional depth.
The special effects, costume design, and world-building are next level. Egan is an astonishing writer when it comes to world-building and aesthetics. Her previous film, “Glasshouse,” earned a five-star review from Mother of Movies.
There’s no announcement for a release date for “The Fix,” but if you’re a film festival fan, keep an eye out for it if you love a good transformation sequence.
“The Fix” is rated 2.5 science fiction universes out of 5.
Director and writer: Kelsey Egan
Starring: Grace Van Dien, Daniel Sharman, and Aidan Scott.
For a movie with body mutations in the horror genre, watch “Suitable Flesh.” For science fiction with technology mutations, watch “Upgrade” next. “The Fix” had its world premiere on June 23rd, 2024, and was provided as a screener. Join the conversation on Facebook with Mother of Movies.
The Fix (2024) – Dystopian Body Horror in an Action Film
Director: Kelsey Egan
Date Created: 2024-06-23 17:13
