TCCDM Dig and Flip: "Night Film" - Marisha Pessl (2013)

Night Film
by Marisha Pessl
(2013 )
Hardback, 599 pages

NO SPOILERS:
Even at 599 pages, I was slicing through this book like butter.  It was a really fast read for me.  I really enjoyed the writing.  Night Film is not exactly horror as it's often labeled, but it does have an unsettling creepiness about it that never leaves the reader at ease.  The daughter of a famous cult-followed horror director is found dead and her death is quickly ruled a suicide.  Our protagonist in this trippy tale is Scott McGath, an investigative journalist who has doubts about the cause of death and goes to work.  There is a good cast of supporting characters and plenty of twists and louies to keep you stretching your shoulders.  So many secrets.  The story moves in a spooky, off-kilter aura where nothing ever feels quite right...in an almost  David Lynch way.  And that makes for a lot of frustrating fun.

To give the story an even more authentic flavor, the author has included news story clippings and pictures throughout the book.  Even screenshots from dark places on the web.  Pick the book up and you'll find it's much heavier than it appears.  Again, Marisha Pessl's writing just keeps you in the game and turning pages.  However, the ending was a little disappointing.  I had imagined another way the story might go.  A little more closure.  I was just so invested.   But that didn't take away from the page-turning fun.  On a side note:  While reading, my mind went rolodexing through real-life directors that have had reputations for being a mad genius.  A little bit out there.  A "get the shot no matter what" director.  No matter the takes.  No matter the risks.  I have one that comes to my mind.  I'm sure you'll have one come to your mind as well.  Kinda fun playing around with the matches.


"I Walk On Guilded Splinters" - Dr. John / "Gris-Gris" (1968)

Good stuff.

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