Chronicle - Movie
One of Chronicle's greatest strengths is its use of the format. Most films in this genre struggle to justify why a character keeps filming during a life-or-death situation. Chronicle solves this through Andrew’s character:
In the pantheon of cinematic villains, Andrew stands apart because he is not driven by greed, world domination, or ideology. He is driven by pain. The film posits a terrifying question: What happens when the most damaged person in the room gains the most power? chronicle movie
The story follows three high school students— (Dane DeHaan), his cousin Matt Garetty (Alex Russell), and the popular Steve Montgomery (Michael B. Jordan)—who discover a mysterious crystalline object in a sinkhole. Soon after, they develop telekinetic abilities that grow stronger the more they use them. One of Chronicle's greatest strengths is its use
As the film progresses, the camera work evolves into something groundbreaking. Once the trio—Andrew, his popular cousin Matt (Alex Russell), and the charismatic Steve (Michael B. Jordan)—gains telekinetic powers, the camera stops being a burden. Andrew learns to levitate the camera, allowing the "found footage" style to break free from its static constraints. We get sweeping, floating shots that feel like a blockbuster, yet maintain the intimate, voyeuristic tension of a documentary. It was a technical marvel that bridged the gap between indie grit and Hollywood sheen. He is driven by pain
A sequel, Martyr , was in development with both Josh Trank and Max Landis returning. It would have explored other people acquiring powers from different "crystals" around the world, and featured Matt (now a fugitive) trying to stop them. The 2015 Fantastic Four 's failure and Landis's later controversies (multiple sexual assault allegations, which he denied) effectively killed the project.
If you're interested in more about the , would you prefer to see: A deeper character analysis of Andrew's psychology?
The film also explores the theme of responsibility, particularly in the character of Matt, who serves as a voice of reason and conscience. As the three friends navigate their new abilities, Matt repeatedly cautions against reckless behavior, emphasizing the need for restraint and consideration. His character serves as a foil to Andrew's, highlighting the tension between individual desire and collective well-being.
