The Vast of Night (2019) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Released in 2019, The Vast of Night is a remarkable indie sci-fi thriller directed by Andrew Patterson and written by James Montague and Craig W. Sanger. The film takes viewers back to 1950s small-town America, exploring the fascination and fear surrounding UFOs, aliens, and the unknown. It is a unique blend of classic sci-fi aesthetics, suspenseful storytelling, and imaginative visuals, making it one of the most interesting sci-fi films of recent years. Despite its low budget, The Vast of Night captivated audiences with its innovative techniques and atmospheric tension.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, themes, and what makes it such a standout in the sci-fi genre, as well as where you can stream it online in the U.S.
Overview of The Vast of Night
Directed by: Andrew Patterson
Written by: James Montague, Craig W. Sanger
Starring: Sierra McCormick, Jake Horowitz, Gail Cronauer, Bruce Davis
Runtime: 1h 31m
Genre: Sci-Fi, Thriller, Mystery
The Vast of Night takes place over the course of a single night in the small town of Cayuga, New Mexico, in the 1950s. The story follows two young protagonists, Fay Crocker (Sierra McCormick), a switchboard operator, and Everett Sloan (Jake Horowitz), a local radio DJ, as they stumble upon a strange audio frequency that disrupts the regular programming of Everett’s radio show. Their curiosity drives them to investigate the source of the signal, leading them to uncover a mystery that could involve extraterrestrial visitors.
Plot Breakdown: A Night of Mysteries
The film opens during a high school basketball game, which the whole town is attending, except for Fay and Everett. Fay is a bright and inquisitive teenager who operates the local switchboard, while Everett is a fast-talking, confident radio DJ. Their night begins uneventfully, but things take a strange turn when Fay hears an unusual audio signal while working at the switchboard. She shares the discovery with Everett, who decides to broadcast the mysterious sound live on his show.
As the signal continues, the two characters receive calls from townspeople who have encountered similar phenomena before. One of the most significant calls comes from Billy (voiced by Bruce Davis), a former military personnel, who claims that the same sound was heard during secret government operations involving UFOs. Billy’s story leads Fay and Everett deeper into the mystery, as they search for more clues about what’s happening in their town.
The film’s tension builds as they piece together stories from locals, including an elderly woman named Mabel Blanche (Gail Cronauer), who shares a chilling tale of past alien encounters. With the possibility of extraterrestrial life becoming more real by the minute, the two protagonists must decide how far they’re willing to go to uncover the truth.
What Worked in The Vast of Night
1. Atmospheric Tension and Style
One of the most striking aspects of The Vast of Night is how it builds suspense through atmosphere and style. The film pays homage to classic 1950s sci-fi, evoking the eerie, mysterious vibe of The Twilight Zone and War of the Worlds. Patterson uses long, unbroken shots, including a stunning tracking shot through the entire town, to create a sense of immersion. These directorial choices heighten the tension without relying on heavy special effects or fast-paced action sequences.
The sound design also plays a crucial role in building the film’s atmosphere. The strange, otherworldly signals and radio broadcasts create an eerie audio landscape that pulls the audience into the mystery. The quiet moments of dialogue, punctuated by these unsettling sounds, keep viewers on edge throughout the film.
2. Strong Performances from a Small Cast
Sierra McCormick and Jake Horowitz carry the film with their engaging performances. McCormick, in particular, stands out as Fay, a character who is curious, determined, and resourceful. Her chemistry with Horowitz’s Everett is believable and charming, and their fast-paced dialogue is reminiscent of classic screwball comedies, adding a refreshing energy to the otherwise slow-burning tension.
The supporting cast, though small, also delivers compelling performances. Gail Cronauer, in her brief but pivotal role as Mabel Blanche, delivers a haunting monologue about past extraterrestrial encounters that adds a layer of depth and gravity to the story.
3. Unique Storytelling Approach
The Vast of Night uses a unique storytelling structure that frames the entire movie as an episode of a fictional TV show called Paradox Theater, which is a clear nod to The Twilight Zone. This framing device gives the film a retro feel and adds to its sense of mystery and intrigue. By blending the boundaries between television, radio broadcasts, and film, The Vast of Night creates a layered narrative that feels timeless.
4. Effective Use of a Low Budget
Despite its modest budget, The Vast of Night achieves a lot with minimal resources. The film doesn’t rely on heavy CGI or elaborate set pieces. Instead, it uses creative camera work, sound design, and character-driven storytelling to convey its sci-fi themes. The less-is-more approach works to the film’s advantage, as it leaves much to the viewer’s imagination, making the mystery more compelling.
What Fell Short in The Vast of Night
1. Slow Pacing
While the film’s slow-burn tension is effective in creating suspense, it may not appeal to all viewers. Those expecting more action or traditional sci-fi spectacle may find the pacing too deliberate, especially in the first half of the movie. The film is more interested in atmosphere and dialogue than in fast-paced thrills, which can feel like a drawback for some.
2. Open-Ended Conclusion
Without spoiling the film, it’s worth noting that The Vast of Night ends on an ambiguous note, leaving some questions unanswered. This may frustrate viewers who prefer more definitive resolutions to the mysteries posed by the plot. However, for those who appreciate open-ended storytelling and the lingering sense of wonder, the conclusion fits well with the film’s overall tone.
The Legacy of The Vast of Night
The Vast of Night was a breakout success on the indie film circuit and has since gained a dedicated following among sci-fi enthusiasts. It premiered at the 2019 Slamdance Film Festival and was later picked up by Amazon Studios for distribution. The film’s critical success lies in its ability to evoke classic sci-fi storytelling while bringing a fresh and modern perspective to the genre.
With its intelligent script, innovative direction, and strong performances, The Vast of Night has solidified its place as one of the most impressive indie sci-fi films of the decade. It also marked Andrew Patterson as a director to watch in the future.
Where to Watch The Vast of Night Online
If you’re interested in watching The Vast of Night in the U.S., here are the available streaming options:
1. Amazon Prime Video
The Vast of Night is currently available to stream exclusively on Amazon Prime Video. As an Amazon Original, it’s included with a Prime subscription, which allows you to watch the film at no extra cost if you’re a member. If you’re not a Prime subscriber, Amazon typically offers free trials for new users, making it easy to catch this film.
2. Rent or Purchase
Since The Vast of Night is an Amazon Original, it is not available for rent or purchase on other platforms like iTunes, Google Play, or Vudu. However, those interested can subscribe to Amazon Prime or purchase individual movies through the platform.
Final Thoughts on The Vast of Night
The Vast of Night is a refreshing, atmospheric entry in the sci-fi genre that harkens back to the golden age of 1950s speculative fiction. Through its unique storytelling, strong performances, and clever use of limited resources, it creates a sense of intrigue and wonder that is rare in modern cinema. While its slow pace and open-ended conclusion might not appeal to everyone, the film’s haunting atmosphere and thought-provoking mystery make it a standout in the indie film world.
For fans of classic sci-fi and those looking for something different from the usual action-packed blockbusters, The Vast of Night is well worth the watch. You can stream it now on Amazon Prime Video.
