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Crash Test
Directed By Sam Voutas
Released: 2003
Starring: Melanie Ansley, Bruce Solibakke, Steve Van Spall, and Sam Voutas
Running Time: 82 minutes
DVD Released By Sub Rosa Cinema
After writing an exposé on the Motorkore Corporation’s use of human
cadavers in crash tests, Sala (played by Sam Voutas) is kidnapped and
forced to become human crash test dummy, 171096. The truth is that
Motorkore uses live human beings as their dummies and it’s the job of
Valerie (Melanie Ansley) and Limbo Jack (Steve Van Spall) to prepare the
dummies for crashes through mental and emotional degradation to get them
to perform. What Motorkore’s lackeys do not realize is that Sala will not
be easily manipulated by their games and that they may not be able to get
this particular dummy to behave.
Sam Voutas directs this oddly intriguing Aussie indie film which features
some decent black and white photography, non-linear storytelling, and
layers of characterization. The premise was a little shaky a the start
with Sala’s writing about Motorkore using dead bodies in crash tests
(still a fairly common practice) actually getting him into trouble doesn’t
really hold water. But the story quickly develops into a nightmare of
mental and physical torture that, thanks to great performances and good
direction, becomes quite engrossing.
What makes Crash Test work are the performances from a
well-chosen cast. Sam Voutas is a good actor and portrays Sala AKA 171096
with great attention to his character’s development while undergoing so
many traumas. Melanie Ansley handles her dual role (as both Valerie and
Sala’s girlfriend, Abby) very well and steals the show during most of her
scenes. Valerie is painfully sexy in her bandages and especially when
she’s beating Sala with a cricket bat. Also, Bruce Solibakke is
exceptional and gives a believable and fascinating performance as fellow
crash test dummy, 47109.
The satirical and paranoia packed Crash Test is a very cool
movie. It may delve into the philosophical at times but at a little over
80 minutes, it never overstays its welcome. The film’s small budget may
have hindered the special effects for the multiple car accidents that take
place but it also helps viewers focus on the characters and dialogue which
are quite well written. If indie sci-fi is your thing, then hit this one
up.
DVD Specs:
Sound and video are great on this Sub Rosa release. There are two short
films by the director, one called “Crash Test” and another called “How Was
Your Day?”. There are also some trailers on the disc as well.
For more go to
Sub Rosa.
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