"The Trap Door at the Edge of the Universe" (2020) | Sam Gall Movie Review Issue #83 Gem Mint 10.0

"The Trap Door at the Edge of the Universe" (2020)

Director: Noah Warner

Writer: Aaron Perilo, Noah Warner

Starring: Shawn Hamilton, Laura Slade Wiggins, Aaron Perilo, Gabriel Horn, Chris Douridas, Bashir Gavriel, Katherine Murphy, Sarah Michael Novia, Rayzeen Santos, Madison Avtal

Rated: Amazon Rating: 16+

Runtime: 1h 34m

Genre: Comedy, Drama, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Crime, Mystery

Country: USA

Language: English

"A hard nosed Private Detective (Shawn Hamilton) takes a case recovering a priceless heirloom for a mysterious Femme Fatale (Laura Wiggins "Shameless") While following the clues, he discovers a secret about himself he didn't see coming."

You might like this if you like: Comedies, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Weird/Strange Stories, Independent Films, Low Budget Films, Crime, Mysteries, Detective Stories, Film Noir, “Clerks” 1994, “Pulp Fiction” 1994, & “Rick & Morty”

Shawn Hamilton in "The Trap Door at the Edge of the Universe" (2020)

I first heard about “Trap Door at the Edge of the Universe” (2020) through the amazing Laura Slade Wiggins (Showtime’s “Shameless”, “20th Century Women”, “Boo” 2019 short film by Rakefet Abergel) who I’ve been a fan of for years now and was kind enough to tell me about her latest film.

Right off the bat I fell in love with its mystery and lightness! It felt like a modern, crime noir mixed with a Princess Leia Hologram-like opening, sending me off on an exciting mission!

"The Trap Door at the Edge of the Universe" (2020)

What stood out to me immediately was it just seemed like it was a fun, passion project to make. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves and that’s such a strong factor for me, as a filmmaker and a viewer. It just screamed, in the most positive way, “WE’RE MAKING A MOVIE!”

I didn’t expect it to be so funny, and in the way that it feels aware of itself and in on the joke with you. I think I had gone in expecting it to be more of a science fiction thriller. I was pleasantly surprised.

Laura Slade Wiggins in "The Trap Door at the Edge of the Universe" (2020)

All the characters throughout the film feel like classic cinema in their own unique ways. They all seemed like such fun characters to write/play. Loved seeing them all interact and play off each other.

Getting to see Laura Wiggins in a classy role that felt like it was right out of the 50s was just a joy to watch! (SMALL SPOILER; you get to enjoy two Laura Wiggins in this!)

"The Trap Door at the Edge of the Universe" (2020)

I loved our lead Detective’s character. Just his mannerisms and random knowledge of things was a really great way to introduce him for me. The Detective (Shawn Hamilton) kept the film together for me. His narration and voice just made me feel safe amongst all the craziness!

Charlie (Gabriel Horn) was a true favorite.. his cats and, well.. you know. Watch the movie.

Laura Slade Wiggins in "The Trap Door at the Edge of the Universe" (2020)

The effects were insane! The costumes! Loved the original soundtrack/score! Best desktop ever (“what kind of cat are you?”) 😂

It’s like "Pulp Fiction", "Clerks" and "Rick & Morty" all got together in this wonderful homage to film noir! If you’re into adventure, breaking the rules, crime stories, strange mysteries and making movies; this one’s the culmination of all that you love!

"The Trap Door at the Edge of the Universe" (2020)

Check out “Trap Door at the Edge of the Universe” (2020) available now on Amazon Prime!

https://www.amazon.com/Trap-Door-Edge-Universe/dp/B08LGB2Y8N

Many props and congrats to everyone involved! Stay tuned for an awesome interview with Laura Slade Wiggins!

@lswiggins

@trapdoorattheedge

@noahyes2

@aaron_perilo

@thegabrielhorn

https://www.facebook.com/TrapDoorAtTheEdge/

Written by Sam Gall on 11/16/20

CGC Grading: Gem Mint 10.0

"This was an entirely unpredictable and hilarious ride! The performances and storyline were both great. Highly recommend for anyone who appreciates Woody Allen, David Lynch, and Charlie Kaufman." - A Bird, Amazon Prime

"What begins as an off-kilter adventure gets weirder as it goes and is all the better for it. This indie is a walk into the unexpected and a satisfying payoff at the end." - Colin, Amazon Prime

"I had no clue what to expect with this film, but boy, was it a blast. I'll admit, it starts off with an off-kilter tone that was a bit confusing, but as the story quickly kicks in you realize exactly why that is. I imagine this was a fairly low budget effort, but what it may lack in comparison to big-budget Hollywood films it more than makes up for in imagination and laughs. A truly weird film and I mean that in the best sense of the word. I imagine fans of Monty Python, Woody Allen and Douglas Adams (The Hitchhikers Guide guy) will appreciate this or anyone who appreciates offbeat storytelling done with heart." - vadimnewquist, Amazon Prime

"i always appreciate seeing up and coming filmmakers throw caution to the wind, and try to put forward new ideas. clearly this film was done on a shoestring, but don’t let that prevent you from enjoying this inventive romp. ." - transfitter, Amazon Prime

Official Trailer:

Available on Amazon Prime

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