Shadowzone is being called an Alien clone. And while some elements certainly are similar, it's not right. This film is definitely more like The Thing (1982).
It's therefore not surprising that Shadowzone can be classified as Lovecraftian horror (cosmic horror). The monster in this film is an alien creature which found its way onto our realm due to a scientific project gone wrong. Isn't it always? Somehow the team under leadership of Dr. Van Fleet played by James Hong, managed to open up a portal between Earth and unknown alien universe. This alien according to Dr. Erhardt (Louise Fletcher) is highly remarkable. It's very funny how scientists often are portrayed as these unhinged and immoral people who would go above and beyond in the name of science at the cost of humanity. Of course, this is not reality. Then again, who else would be crazy enough to research these out of the world phenomenon. And can somebody tell me why James Hong had a German accent?
Our lead Capt. Hickock played by David Beecroft is sent out to investigate a death of a test subject. Instead of being upfront and honest to him, they conceal the truth, a mistake that will cost them dearly. For a large part Shadowzone is effective as a horror. It rarely shows the creature. And when it does, it truly is horrifying. Some people claim that this film suffers from the low budget. I don't agree at all. The special effects are practical, and that always is better than CGI. Also, they very wisely leave it up to your imagination to what the creature actually looks like. I do think the pacing is awful. It's too slow in parts, that detracts from the terror a little. I suspect this is done to hide the budgetary constraints and an attempt to build up suspense. It does work to a certain extent but not nearly as the film (The Thing) they are copying.
One prominent role is reserved for Maureen Flaherty. She plays Jenna. One of the test subjects. She is naked throughout the film, where all her features are exposed to the audience. Trust me, once you see these feature you will be invested in this film. Women and men alike. They are, as Dr. Erhardt would state, remarkable!
Overall, a decent sci-fi / horror flick. Although, I am not really sure if I can recommend it. It certainly won't be a waste of your time.
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