When I hear the phrase “based on true events,” I have two completely different yet equally strong reactions. I cringe, thinking of how I might have to suffer through what has become a too commonly used technique of “found footage” which really just means a bunch of shaky camera work that will more than likely make me feel like I need to throw up. The other reaction is a tiny squee of delight as I get to watch a true crime story come to life on the big screen (or my TV screen, whichever the case may be).
The Torment of Laurie Ann Cullom warranted neither of these reactions.
Advertised as being “inspired by actual events,” this indie horror film follows Laurie Ann who has become agoraphobic after suffering a brutal attack the previous year. Set in 1988, this tale of Laurie shows what happens when the true terror may not be what evil lurks outside of the home but rather what evil has seeped into her safe haven.
Even though the run time is just over an hour long and even though the film spans the last 72 hours of Cullom’s life, there were times when it felt drug out for me. Scenes of the sheriff or phone calls or conversations just felt like fillers, though they did help to give viewers a better understanding of the characters.
This is not to say it was not a good film. It feels like a true 80’s horror film with an unknown stalking a lone victim. The viewer is in the dark at times with Laurie and made to wonder if she really is in danger or if it is all just in her mind.
If you want to check out the trailer, here is the link:
The Torment of Laurie Ann Cullom was released on digital platforms including Prime Video and Google Play March 2, 2020.