In Medias Res (I) (2011) User Reviews

Classical interpretation of the original fall from grace.

[MeghanBancala3 · 10/10 · 26 May 2023]

"In Medias Res" is based on Paradise Lost and offers a deeper, richer and fuller experience than most any movie about the Bearer of Light turned Prince of Darkness.

The cinematography and shots of the sky and scenery within the main location are spectacular. Director Joe Perry builds and hinges the movie around Satan and the construct works. Keith Stahle delivers an utterly chilling, charismatic, unpredictably brilliant performance that is as impressive within animalistic, demonic ambition as it is vulnerable and realistic within human emotion. He freaks you out but you love him for it. Melanie Cruz is effervesently wise, hopeful, maternal, timeless, and virtuous as God's liason Michelle, a part she is inspired casting for. Unfortunately, Craig Leibowitz makes an earnestly determined effort but sometimes falls flat as the lead Redondo.

Watching this, you will wish there was a purgatory. Maybe there is...?

[jeanpaulhansford · 9/10 · 18 May 2023]

Growing up in the Catholic religion, I vividly remember my boyhood choice of either 'being good,' leading to a joyful, everlasting life in Heaven, or being 'bad,' and eternal damnation in the fires of Hell. But I often felt sanctuary in another place, between Heaven and Hell, called Purgatory, where you are allowed to atone for your sins.

Watching 'In Medias Res,' purgatory could very well be the place a recently deceased man arrives on a desolate beach. It might almost be idyllic, except for the burning steps.

I wonder where this movie's recently passed director, Joe Perry is now? If you've never heard of him, you are not alone. To date, his work is largely unrecognised.

Back to the beach, and the burning steps. 'In Medias Res' is Latin for 'In the midst of things.' Exactly where actor Keith Stahle finds himself, a desperate man, Redondo, fighting for his soul.

In any successful creative field, there is always an 'X-Factor.' Something indescribable and impossible to teach. Keith Stahle has it. Watch him and you will see what I mean.

Life after death is one thing. A battle between Heaven and Hell is quite another.