Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on September 2013

Remember that amusing sequence back in the first Spiderman movie, when Tobey Maguire first discovers his new spidey powers and then swings off to do good in the world? Well, consider this refreshingly original and surprisingly entertaining sleeper a more real-world approach to what teenagers might do with such superpowers. Three high school kids (Dane DeHaan. Alex Russell & Michael B. Jordan) gain amazing telekinetic abilities from a presumably alien thingy they’ve discovered in a hole in the ground. It’s all a hoot as they progress from pranks (they are kids) to levitation to full-on Superman flying. But then things start to get dark and disturbing as human nature brings things down to earth, and their powers begin to surpass their ability to handle them responsibly. None of the actors is well known, boosting the film’s believability, and the dialogue is natural. The “found footage” approach is a little forced and annoying until you realize how effective it’s being. Best of all, it’s self-contained, with no sequel set up or even necessary. This unique sci-fi fantasy/cautionary tale is directed by Josh Trank and written by Max Landis, both 26. Guys to watch.