The Quantum Devil is a 2023 American sci-fi horror, written and directed by Larry Wade Carrell, with additional writing from Zeph E. Daniel and Stephen Johnston. Beginning his career as an actor, writer, and co-director of the comedy Game Over: The Secret Life of Game Store Clerks (2009), Larry has worked on several titles in different fascets – such as Jacob (2011) and Lars the Emo Kid (2015). Whereas, Zeph E. Daniel has worked as a writer on such classics as Bride of Reanimator (1990) and Society (1989), and Stephen Johnston is known for working as a writer on such films as Ed Gein (2000) and The Hillside Strangler (2004).
An international team of scientist are summoned by an ominous invitation to a remote location in Eastern Europe to conduct clandestine experiments in an effort to breach the quantum barrier and travel to another dimension. The four scientists, each with a dark secret, must confront the sins of their past while facing the dangerous consequences of journeying to the other side, into the realm of The Quantum Devil.
Successfully fabricating an enigmatic tale full of details kept sub-rosa, The Quantum Devil triumphantly drip-feeds its narrative to the audience – keeping an adequate pace throughout whilst still withholding key information of the overall story and manages to utilise this to create a thick air of tension throughout. Moreover, the film has multiple references to other beloved adaptations of Lovecraft’s work, naturally working these aspects into its own narrative and will undoubtedly have fans of these works pointing at the screen like Dicaprio.
Providing a diligent visual design, The Quantum Devil implements some slick cinematographic techniques throughout. The manipulation of tight shots with kinetic panning are an inventive means of incorporating the multiple actors present in a scene whilst still maintaining the overall focus perfectly. Although this design is hardly deviated from, never adapting another framing style into the mix, and starts to become slightly stilted towards the film’s conclusion. Additionally, the use of coloured lights certainly aids in embuing an otherworldly ambiance at points, the implementation of vibrant reds, blues, and purples certainly aids in the translation of the film’s Lovecraftian theme without an over-reliance.
Utilising fairly versed, yet relatively unknown actors to fill its repertoire of characters, the cast of The Quantum Devil provides some admirable performances throughout. Undoubtedly, one of the best performances is delivered by the film’s more recognisable actor, Neil Dickson, who conveys an incredibly over-the-top performance, joyfully chewing the scenery whenever the opportunity is presented. However, the scientific jargon rattled off by our four main protagonists, whilst technically accurate, feels stilted and lacks any real organic delivery—feeling far too rehearsed and somewhat alien to these supposed academic characters.
Whilst The Quantum Devil isn’t as effects-laden as some adaptations, its gradual implementation certainly aids with the narrative build in tension. The practical effects are an efficient yet somewhat restrained display, delivering a more grounded display of violence rather than an over-the-top geyser of gore yet still carrying a strong focus – hardly ever shying away from its visualisation. However, the implementation of its CGI effects that, unfortunately, display the film’s low budget. Providing a mixed experience, the effects range from serviceable, such as the establishing shots, to downright laughable at times. The shattering mirror, for instance, is incredibly poor in quality and resembles something out of a PS2-rendered cutscene.
A diligent, modern reimagining of everyone’s favourite tentacle monster, it’s certainly evident that writer/director Larry Wade Carrell is truly a knowledgeable fan of the Cthulhu mythos. With The Quantum Devil’s multiple references to other works and adaptations of Lovecraft, wonderful cinematography, and engaging premise, the film is an honest attempt at creating a tribute to the Lovecraft mythos. However, its shortcomings in its eclectic CGI quality and inorganic terminology are fairly apparent, ultimately feeling like a small-budget feature at times. Despite this, the film will unquestionably entertain those who enjoy cosmic horror and the timeless works of H.P. Lovecraft.
The Quantum Devil is available to watch on Redbox Entertainment.
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Hey there, I’m Jim and I’m located in London, UK. I am a Writer and Managing Director here at Grimoire of Horror. A lifelong love of horror and writing has led me down this rabbit hole, allowing me to meet many amazing people and experience some truly original artwork. I specialise in world cinema, manga/graphic novels, and video games but will sometime traverse into the unknown in search of adventure.