Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead are truly gifted. This dynamic duo, known for their indie success and projects like Moon Knight and Loki, never lose sight of their DIY spirit. They excel in writing, directing, producing, acting, shooting, and editing their own films. Every aspect of their projects, such as Spring, Synchronic, and the recent Something in the Dirt, radiates with genuine passion.
Benson and Moorhead have captured the hearts of horror enthusiasts and filmmakers alike. Similar to legends like Roger Corman, John Carpenter, Kathryn Bigelow, and M. Night Shyamalan, they have a unique ability to create epic narratives from intimate settings. Despite limited budgets, confined locations, and small casts, they make us believe that the fate of the world rests on the actions of a few individuals in a remote location, as demonstrated in The Endless.
Released in 2017 following the success of Spring, The Endless showcased a new level of storytelling ambition for Benson and Moorhead while maintaining their independent spirit. A blend of sci-fi, horror, and cult drama, the film explores recurring themes in their work. It stands as one of the best independent horror films of the past decade and a remarkable cosmic horror film. Fortunately, it is currently available for streaming on Peacock.
Why The Endless is one of the best cosmic horror films ever
Benson and Moorhead portray Justin and Aaron, two brothers who lead a solitary life after escaping a “UFO cult” where members were subjected to castration and manipulated into conformity. The brothers seek therapy to recover from the cult experience, work odd jobs to make ends meet, and strive to get through each day. Their lives take a turn when Aaron receives a mysterious video cassette from their former cult home, Camp Arcadia.
While Justin wants to move on, Aaron believes there is more to explore from the tape they left behind. They return to Camp Arcadia, where time seems to stand still, peculiar rock formations abound, and reality bends in mysterious ways. The film delves into whether their experiences are genuine or if Justin is trying to prevent Aaron from falling back into delusion.
Delving further into the mysteries of Camp Arcadia would spoil the slow-burn satisfaction of The Endless. The film intricately weaves a narrative that blends character drama with cosmic horror elements, showcasing that a substantial budget is not necessary to evoke fear on a grand scale. Benson and Moorhead expertly build tension and deliver scares, incorporating intimate and grandiose moments seamlessly.
The Endless evolves into a captivating and awe-inspiring experience while maintaining its initial intimacy. It serves as a perfect introduction to Benson and Moorhead’s work, a must-watch for cosmic horror fans, and a masterpiece of indie horror.
The Endless is currently available for streaming on Peacock.
