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DVD Review: Puzzlehead |
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| Written by Trent Daniel | ||||||
| Monday, 16 November 2009 | ||||||
 Puzzlehead is a science fiction drama starring Stephen Galaida and Robbie Shapiro. Directed by James Bai. Though science fiction is usually associated with Hollywood mega-blockbusters overrun with CGI effects, Puzzlehead is proof that an effective, though provoking sci-fi film can be made on a low budget. The plot: in a seemingly post-apocalyptic world, Walter, a lonely inventor, creates an android clone of himself and teaches his new companion, Puzzlehead, how to speak and do chores. However, Puzzlehead begins to develop human thoughts and emotions and yearns to break free from being at the beck and call of Walter. While on an errand, Puzzlehead saves the life of Julia, a store clerk that Walter has secretly pined for, but has never found the courage to approach. Soon, Puzzlehead and Walter find themselves in a battle over Julia. Which one will she choose? The plot borrows from some classic sci-films and stories, especially Frankenstein (with a dash of Pinnochio and 2001). The bleak, sparsely populated, industrial landscape also mirrors David Lynch’s Eraserhead to a degree. It also touches on themes found at least in part in all these classics, such as what it means to be human, resistance to dehumanization and the needs of all living things for companionship. Regarding the acting, it is somewhat difficult to criticize Stephen Galadia in the challenging dual role of Walter and Puzzlehead. It seemed that his performance was too wooden and robotic at times, yet, since he was playing a robot, would that not be the point? Easier to criticize is the plot, which goes off the tracks a bit at the end. Julia’s actions near the end, for instance, seem somewhat confusing. Worse, it seems that Walter and Puzzlehead begin to switch roles as the hero and villain of the story more than once. However, this film is still quite an achievement for Director Bai and, again, shows that sci-fi does not necessarily need a major budget to be effective, moving and, like the best sci-fi, able to challenge its audience with some difficult questions. Worth a look. Extras:
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