Film Review – Shell

Screenwriter Jack Stanley (“Lou,” “The Passenger”) examines the impossible reach of beauty standards and the anti-aging industry with “Shell,” which is more of a horror picture than a direct attack on the business of being perfect. The story follows a character who’s aged out of Hollywood casting, tempted into taking part in a special cult-like clinic that promises drastic results and a refreshed life. Of course, nothing goes as planned, and Stanley has some fun with the results, examining the draw of dubious science and the crush of self-esteem issues. Director Max Minghella attempts to keep the effort rolling along with strange encounters and discoveries, clearly embracing a chance to visit Cronenberg Country as bodily decay starts to creep into the central crisis. “Shell” isn’t a major viewing event, but it has a few ghoulish ideas and screen energy to share, going to a few crazy places for viewers interested in oddball endeavors. Read the rest at Blu-ray.com