The 3rd Guest (2023)

To start, here's a good summary of how things went down: https://soundcloud.com/indie_horror_rising/ep-118-discussion-with-sean-patrick-
cannon I feel bad for everyone involved, however, after listening to this, I'm surprised it finished and released. It's not as terrible as other people are making it out to sound- however, go into it with the knowledge you're looking at a $10,000 film that one guy did 95% of the work on. Is that accurate? I'm looking for anything other than these podcasts with regard to publicity... seems like it was dumped out there with no regard for the results. Luckily, seems like the filmmakers have other things going on. The lead actor is quite good, I wouldn't mind working with him in the future :)

The 3rd Guest" had all the potential to be a gripping and suspenseful thriller, but unfortunately, it fell short of expectations. From the promising premise to the initial buildup, it seemed like an intriguing journey awaited the audience. However, as the story unfolded, it became evident that the film failed to deliver on its potential, leaving viewers feeling unsatisfied and somewhat disheartened. One of the main issues with "The 3rd Guest" was its pacing. The slow and meandering narrative failed to maintain the tension and excitement necessary for a successful thriller. Rather than keeping the audience on the edge of their seats, the film tended to drag, leaving ample room for disinterest to creep in. Another notable letdown was the underdeveloped characters. Despite a talented cast, their performances were hindered by the lack of depth in their respective roles. Viewers were left craving a stronger emotional connection and backstory, which could have added much-needed substance to the film's overall impact. Moreover, the plot twists, which are a crucial element in any thriller, felt forced and predictable in "The 3rd Guest." Instead of surprising and shocking the audience, they came across as contrived and clichéd, undermining the intended suspense. The script failed to explore the full potential of the storyline, leaving viewers with a lingering feeling of missed opportunities. Visually, the film had some redeeming qualities. The cinematography was skillfully executed, capturing the gloomy atmosphere and enhancing the eerie undertones of the narrative. However, the technical prowess alone could not salvage the overall disappointment of the film. "The 3rd Guest" had the ingredients for a chilling and memorable thriller, but unfortunately, it failed to deliver on its promises. Lacking in pacing, character development, and genuine suspense, the film left viewers feeling empty and unfulfilled. It's a regretful example of a missed opportunity to create a compelling and engaging cinematic experience. Given its budget constraints & potential to improve with a follow up, I am giving it high marks of 9/10 on the low budget indie spectrum.

In "The 3rd Guest," Nikki Kris plays the role of Evie, who finds herself caught in a web of supernatural events. Her on-screen presence injects a refreshing dose of humor into the horror genre, striking a perfect balance between levity and tension. The film's script is peppered with smart and snappy dialogue, allowing Kris to showcase her comedic timing and charm. Beyond the witty banter and comedic relief, "The 3rd Guest" also succeeds in building a genuinely creepy atmosphere. The cinematography plays with shadows and lighting, heightening the sense of unease as the story progresses. The tension is expertly maintained, and the occasional jump scare will keep you on your toes. While the film does lean into the horror tropes we all know and love, it manages to subvert expectations with unexpected plot twists and a satisfying conclusion. It's a testament to both Kris's talent and the storytelling prowess of the filmmakers, as they successfully navigate the fine line between homage and originality. "The 3rd Guest" is an enjoyable horror film that breathes new life into the genre, thanks in large part to Nikki Kris's magnetic performance. It's a delightful blend of scares and laughter, providing an entertaining and engaging experience for horror enthusiasts and casual moviegoers alike. Get ready to be both amused and terrified as you embark on this thrilling journey with Nikki Kris at the helm.