Spiral

Synopsis

Spiral (2018), directed by Kurtis David Harder and starring Alexander Abdallah, is a thriller that delves into the unsettling psychological unraveling of its protagonist. The story follows a man who finds himself trapped in a disorienting cycle of paranoia and mystery, blurring the lines between reality and illusion. As he spirals deeper into confusion, the narrative explores themes of identity, trust, and the fragility of the human mind. The film's atmospheric tension is heightened by its minimalist approach and haunting visuals, creating an intense and immersive experience that challenges viewers to piece together the fragmented truth alongside the central character.

Cast

• 

  Alexander Abdallah

  Karim

• Emil Lindberg

  Dan

• Pär Malmström

  Marco

• Alioune Ndaw

  Pape

• Al Mamour

  Becknaren

• Hanna Hellberg

  Party person

Reviews

Spiral received mixed to positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.1/10, reflecting a moderate reception. Critics on Rotten Tomatoes have praised the film's ambitious psychological themes and atmospheric style, noting its ability to create an eerie and suspenseful mood. However, some criticism was directed at its pacing and narrative clarity, with a few reviewers mentioning that the plot can feel convoluted or overly abstract at times. Metacritic scores reflect this divided opinion, with some appreciating the film's artistic approach while others find it lacking in traditional storytelling elements. As noted by a reviewer from PopMatters, 'Spiral is an intriguing psychological thriller that cleverly manipulates the audience’s perception, even if it sometimes sacrifices clarity for style.' Similarly, HorrorNews.net highlighted the film's tension-building and strong lead performance but cautioned that its ambiguous resolution might not satisfy all viewers. Overall, Spiral is considered a thought-provoking indie thriller that resonates well with fans of cerebral mysteries, though it may not appeal to those seeking a straightforward narrative.