Lo is a sublimely intriguing film by up-and-coming independent film director Travis Betz. The entire film features around a small cast of unknowns on a single set with a play-like atmosphere. Turned off yet? If so, that's my bad because Lo absolutely rocks. It may look and feel like a play, but it is an extremely fun and interesting movie.

When Justin's (Ward Roberts) girlfriend is kidnapped by a demon he summons another demon called Lo (Jeremiah Birkett) to bring back his beloved April (Sarah Lassez) from Hell. Kept safe inside a mystical pentagram, Justin must lock wits with the demon to bind him to his will. Being a demon, Lo constantly tries to trick Justin into his own demise rather than obey him. The catch is that this isn't a horror film.

While it is in the horror realm, it is most definitely an extremely quirky romantic comedy. The closest things to Lo are some of the goofier episodes of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. If you're a fan of Buffy and rank the musical episode "Once More with Feeling" amongst your favorites, you're going to dig the absolute hell out of this film.

The film may take place entirely in one room, but it features several distinct acts that bring new locales and actors into the setting. You get to see several flashbacks of Justin and April's relationship, a demon bartender doing a dance as he mixes an infernal cocktail, two tormented souls writhing behind a wall of blood, and a demon rock and roll band amongst all things. The settings and stuff are all low-tech, but the effects are still great. The demon make-up is extremely well done (better than many high budget films), and everything seems to really pop and catch the eye.

Faust and more directly The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus are mentioned several times throughout the film. Familiarity with those works will bring a lot of parallels and pulp to the dark comedic undertones. However, prior knowledge is by no means needed for full enjoyment. Betz does a masterful job of bringing the characters to life and fulfilling a truly unique love story.

As far as the acting goes, my only real qualm was with Ward Roberts' performance. You really did feel like you were watching a community play with him as the lead, and if that is what the director was going for - mission accomplished. I state that he may have been going for that play feel because the film purposefully evokes that play-like aspect. The lighting, scenery, and even camera angles are done as if filming a play. Hell, some of the characters break the fourth wall at times to mention how it was supposed to be a play.

Most importantly this is a movie about love; the lengths a man will go for love; and the true nature of love. Definitely not what you'd expect from a film involving singing and dancing demons.

Sarah Lassez reminded me of a softer version of Amanda Peet and did a fine job bringing April's engaging eccentricity to life. Her physical comedy was pretty well done, although at times it felt like she could have benefited from a slightly better script.

The demons all did a remarkable job with their body language and dialogue. I did have some apprehensions about the two tortured souls, but the demons Lo and Jeez really sell their roles. Jeez is a little confusing at first with his Nazi uniform and bougie vocal style; however when he breaks into song I was thoroughly impressed at his ability to sing enjoyably and understandably. The musical number really delivered.

Overall, I recommend this film to anyone that likes quirky cinema and Whedon-esque humor. I don't think that everyone will get or like this, but I still give it a very solid 7 and a major thumbs up. I definitely look forward to seeing more from Betz and hope this film finds some level of success to bring him the attention he deserves.

I'm not a big fan of the trailer as it doesn't do the film justice, but here you go:

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