"Strange Harvest: Occult Murder in the Inland Empire" is the latest feature film from writer/director Stuart Ortiz, best known for his film "Grave Encounters". "Strange Harvest" is a faux documentary, which helps explains the unique and long title, about the murder spree of Mr. Shiny and the police detectives trying to solve the case. The film is presented with POV camera work, webcams, security footage, and standard interviews. It reminded me of "The Bay" which also used a variety of media recording devices. It was an engaging and well executed film, with solid performances from Peter Zizzo and Terri Apple. It was a perfect addition in the line up at the 29th annual H.P Lovecraft Film Festival.
The movie begins by introducing Detective Joe Kirby and his partner Detective Alexis Taylor, and their involvement in the Mr. Shiny case after the discovery of a gruesome crime scene. It soon becomes apparent that after a long hiatus, Mr. Shiny has resumed his killing spree within the San Bernardino valley. The movie then shows his first three crimes, which at first seem completely unrelated other than the extreme violence involved. After the discovery of an occult like symbol and a letter taunting the police, the come to realize that they are dealing with a serial killer.
The detectives have little to work with due to the lack of clues, but as the killing escalate, clues are uncovered and the chase is on. Some killings are well planned out while others are improvised. Even after his identity revealed, he is able to meticulously finish off a victim under police protection in a busy hospital. Mr. Shiny is ruthless and unrelenting, and he will not be stopped. His taunting notes to the police continue to arrive, up to a few days before the climax of his killing spree.
"Strange Harvest" was a fun watch and I feel that it should still be just as engaging with multiple viewings. It worked well as a faux documentary, feeling grounded enough in reality to make it seem possible, while adding the supernatural and cosmic horror elements sprinkled throughout.
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