Writer and director James Eaves film explores the idea of a mysterious artifact resembling box being passed through different ages and civilizations in history promising fortune and glory for all instead leaving a trail of blood mayhem and death everywhere it lands.
Its commonly known as "The Apocalypse Box"
The Apocolypse Box has now landed in modern day England in the hands of malevolent right wing politician Pier Stonesmith on the eve of his possible election.
Desprate to cling to power has acquired the box and has gathered a room of strangers to play "the game" they must use the box to grant each person a wish if they can remain in one piece by midnight they all stand to win a large sum of money. The group quickly find attempting to use the box even with good intentions has bloody and horrifing consuqeunces.
Trapped where they and cut off from the outside world the group find themselves in a Squid Game like predicament where they must fight to survive.
Director James Eaves skllfully the tension between his characters as a subversive and insightful vehicle to explore divisions in our society. Racial divisions, tensions and disconnection between the younger and older generations. The ever increasing gap between the rich and the poor. It made me think of something acclaimed "social issues" director Ken Loach would do if he ever tackled the horror genre.
The films atmosphere sound design and music reminded me of director M Night Shamalayan back when he was younger and consistent.
The Apocalypse Box is a worthy entertaining watch and holds up a very insightful mirror to our deeply flawed society.
