LUZ
LUZ

Movie spotlight

LUZ

2020
Movie
118 min
English

Ruben and Carlos become cellmates in a minimum-security prison. While Ruben struggles to learn the ropes of daily life and where he falls in the complex hierarchical prison system, Carlos becomes a mentor and then eventually a lover. The two men develop feelings for one another they can't easily express. As time moves on and one of them is released before the other, there are questions looming as to whether what they had was real or simply out of the need for human connection.

Insights

IMDb6.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes75%
Director: Daniel V. ChalfenGenres: Horror, Drama, Mystery

Plot Summary

A young woman, feeling increasingly disconnected from her family and the world around her, embarks on a journey of self-discovery that leads her to a remote mountain retreat. As she delves deeper into esoteric practices and uncovers unsettling family secrets, she begins to question her own sanity and the nature of reality itself. Strange occurrences and unsettling visions plague her, blurring the lines between the spiritual and the terrifying.

Critical Reception

Luz received a mixed to positive reception, with critics often highlighting its atmospheric tension and unique blend of psychological horror and occult themes. While some found its pacing deliberate and its narrative ambiguous, many praised its distinct visual style and unsettling mood. Audience reception was similarly divided, appealing to those who appreciate slow-burn, experimental horror.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its atmospheric and unsettling mood.

  • The film's ambiguous narrative and slow-burn pacing can be divisive.

  • Applauded for its unique visual style and exploration of occult themes.

Google audience: N/A

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Film at the Sitges Film Festival (2020).

Fun Fact

The film's director, Daniel V. Chalfen, also served as the cinematographer, contributing to its distinct visual aesthetic.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review

TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

When “Ruben” (Ernesto Reyes) is sent to prison he finds his new cell mate “Carlos” (Jesse Tayeh) an unwelcoming bully of a guy and just about everyone else in there ignores him. Gradually, though, he begins to find his feet, befriend his ro...

CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

When “Ruben” (Ernesto Reyes) is sent to prison he finds his new cell mate “Carlos” (Jesse Tayeh) an unwelcoming bully of a guy and just about everyone else in there ignores him. Gradually, though, he begins to find his feet, befriend his ro...