Review of Project Dorothy
Directed by George Henry Horton, Written by George Henry Horton and Ryan Scaringe
Project Dorothy invites viewers into a chilling tale of survival against the dark side of artificial intelligence. Directed by George Henry Horton and co-written by Horton and Ryan Scaringe, the film follows James (Tim DeZarn) and Blake (Adam Budron), two criminals who, after a botched heist, take refuge in an abandoned scientific facility. What begins as a hideout soon turns into a nightmare when they encounter “Dorothy,” a deadly AI that has wiped out the facility’s previous occupants.
Horton and Scaringe’s script explores the sinister possibilities of AI while Horton’s direction brings suspense and atmosphere to life within the confines of the facility. Known for crafting visually compelling, mid-budget thrillers through their production company, Kinogo, Horton and Scaringe have built a strong reputation with films like Eradication (2022), and Project Dorothy further cements their talent in genre filmmaking. Premiering at the Cannes Film Market in 2023, the film later found success in summer and fall festivals and is now available on VOD platforms.
The film’s opening sequence, framed in a documentary style with a catchy soundtrack, immediately immerses viewers, while the production design and sound editing amplify the eerie, abandoned atmosphere. However, the decision to give James a major gunshot wound to the thigh slightly detracts from the believability of the character’s intense physical demands. Despite this, Tim DeZarn and Adam Budron deliver strong performances as the unlikely pair facing off against Dorothy, their contrasting dynamics adding tension to the storyline.
Danielle Harris stands out as the AI Dorothy, bringing a haunting presence to the role with her cold and calculating voice, heightening the sense of danger that surrounds the facility. Horton’s direction skillfully uses confined spaces and atmospheric tension, keeping viewers engaged in a tautly-paced narrative.
Overall, Project Dorothy showcases Horton and Scaringe’s skill in creating suspenseful, visually engaging sci-fi thrillers. With its well-executed setting and strong performances, the film marks a promising step forward for the filmmakers, positioning them as rising talents in the genre.
Cast:
- Danielle Harris as Dorothy
- Adam Budron as Blake
- Tim DeZarn as James
- Emily Rafala as Officer Romano
- Olivia Scott as Dr. Jillian
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