Reviewed by Melissa Garza
Eddie Boone (James Black) is a no nonsense cop who doesn’t play by the rules. When his partner disappears he hits the streets in an attempt to find him. What he finds instead is a dangerous drug. He is injected with the substance and then suffers insane hallucinations, violent bouts of sickness, and the mutants who were transformed by the chemical.
The movie opens strong and throughout the first half, remains so. The premise is without a doubt an interesting one. A drug with dangerous side-effects is not unheard of, combine the feel of a horror/action hybrid, a quality movie can be expected. Early on, that is exactly what the viewers get. The lead is strong. The atmosphere and setting create a suspenseful opening.
Immediately, the investigation becomes personal when Boone’s partner turns up missing. So far things are good, and they do become better. Eddie is a tough Dirty Harry style officer. He isn’t afraid to take chances or to stand up for what he believes in. He won’t relent until he uncovers the truth even if it puts himself in danger. During the initial half hour, the focus on Boone is important. He is the core film and easily captures the attention of the audience.
One of the finest moments of the movie, takes place early on. Eddie walks into his superior’s, Captain Getz’s office after the initial showdown where his partner disappears. Getz (Jerry Camp)is evidently tired of the antics of the cop, that seemingly are routine behavior. He attempts to make a stand but is insulted and demeaned. Finally, the Captain can’t take anymore and demands that Boone relinquishes his badge. The scene is hilarious and alone makes the movie worth a watch.
The entire production falls upon the shoulders of Black who is able to hold his own. When the focus is on the dialogue rather than the action, the movie has such promise. The lines are delivered well and Black was able to capture the forcefulness that the role demanded. Had the drama of the film continued, the picture would have been so much better. Unfortunately, the shift changes, however, and suddenly fight scenes and hallucinations are the focus. Though both were necessary, too much really hindered the flow. It isn’t that the action sequences are poor, they’re not; but surprisingly it slows the pace down. Whereas in the first scenes, Boone gained the support and sympathy of the audience, near the end the absence of emotion causes a lot of that to disappear.
The special effects are surprisingly decent considering the budget and the casting was done well.
In many ways, “Ozone,” is ahead of its time. While watching it one can’t help but think of films like “Cabin Fever.” The stories are similar, and “Ozone” could easily be remade if slightly reworked. First, more supporting characters should be added into the mix. Though the character of Eddie is strong, there has to be others that the audience can either root for or root against. As for this entry, it’s worth watching and had a great deal of potential that was eventually lost in the action sequences.
Scared Stiff Rating: 5.5/10
