Monolith (2022)

I saw Monolith at the 2022 Adelaide Film Festival and loved it! It is a brilliant low-budget Australian sci-fi thriller that Lucy Campbell wrote and Matt Vesely directed. Lily Sullivan plays a disgraced journalist in the movie who looks into the mysterious “monolith” in an effort to salvage her career. While the film’s historical and cultural context is not explicitly stated, it is set in a world where podcasts are a popular medium for investigative journalism, so it is reasonable to assume it is present-day. The film’s theme is centred around the idea of truth and the lengths people will go to uncover it. The tone of the film is dark and suspenseful, with a creeping sense of dread that builds throughout the story.

Lily Sullivan, who is the only person on screen for the entire movie, delivers a standout performance as the journalist, bringing depth and nuance to a character that could have easily been one-dimensional. The supporting cast, which is entirely voice-acting, is also strong, with each actor bringing a unique energy to their respective roles. With a distinct vision for the movie’s tone and pacing, Matt Vesely directs with assurance and confidence. The haunting and atmospheric score by Benjamin Speed perfectly complements the movie’s dark and suspenseful tone. Michael Tessari’s cinematography is outstanding, especially in light of the movie’s tight budget. The use of colour and lighting is particularly effective in creating a sense of unease and tension.

Monolith’s use of symbolism is subtle but effective, with the monolith itself serving as a powerful metaphor for the truth that the journalist is seeking. The production design is impressive, with the film’s restricted budget being used creatively to create a world that feels both familiar and otherworldly. The special effects are also impressive, especially, again, considering the film’s low budget. The editing is precise and powerful, with every scene clearly contributing to the story’s progression. The pace of the film is slow and deliberate, allowing the tension to build gradually over the course of the story. The dialogue is well-written, with each character’s voice feeling distinct and authentic.

Monolith is a low-budget sci-fi thriller that delivers a high-impact story. While the film’s budget limitations are occasionally apparent, the film’s strong performances, confident direction, and effective use of symbolism and atmosphere more than make up for any shortcomings. I would highly recommend Monolith to fans of sci-fi and suspenseful thrillers.