Aberration: Deja Reve

“Deja Reve” is best described as the profound sensation that a current waking experience mirrors a memory that one has already lived. The film ‘Aberration: Deja Reve’ follows a young scientist, Chase, on the verge of a breakthrough in creating a medication that allows you to relive old memories in this bold science-fiction fever dream by Rocko Paolo.

The opening sequence features frantic camera movements, instantly instilling a sense of unease. This feeling is further emphasised by Chase, played by actress Rachel Stone, and her unrestful physicality. Commendations should be given to Stone for carrying the majority of this film’s runtime on her back single handedly, delivering an energetic performance as her character spirals into an addiction instigated madness. However, the acting in this piece is at its peak when she is joined by scene partner Rocko Paulo. The two constantly interrupt and talk over each other, giving their conversation an earnest sense of reality which really adds to the immersion of the performances. It is a great creative decision then, that cinematographer Alexander Joseph allows the camera to linger on the performances for long periods of time rather than cutting to other angles, in a mature and understated choice that elevates the material.

From a writing perspective the story releases its exposition slowly, drip feeding the audience information over its sixteen minute runtime, keeping the audience engaged as we get our head around the fantastical concept.

In the dream sequences of this film, Paulo utilises a very obvious green screen. Where this might be out of place and distracting in any other piece of media – in this case it perfectly adds a sense of uncanny valley to these montages that really lends to the core dreamlike conceit of the film.

Despite its imaginative concept, this piece is not without its flaws. The distracting colour grading and often-times overwhelming sound design certainly causes a disconnect with the narrative, with shots that seem carelessly composed in post-production and sound that is either too quiet or abrasive in any given moment. Due to this, audiences may find it difficult to suspend their disbelief. Thematically the story initially seems to set out to tell a fascinating tale about the dangers of obsessive nostalgia, but is then watered down when Miles implies the existence of parallel universes which further confuses the commentary.

With a fascinating concept at its core, ‘Aberration: Deja Reve’ features hints of genius in its storytelling, performances and cinematography but is bogged down by a lack of narrative focus and need for a sharper edit.