In 2012, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) was still in its so-called Phase 1 and superhero cinema was booming like never before. Almost unnoticed celebrated in the same year with Chronicle – What are you capable of? a smaller film premiered that also focused on people with superpowers.
However, anyone who saw director Josh Trank’s low-budget work in the cinema at the time did not see brightly colored popcorn cinema full of bombast and casual sayings. Instead, the superhero theme serves as it dark metaphor for the pitfalls of pubertypackaged in a stirring found footage style.
The film would be a welcome boost for the genre, especially these days, given the highly standardized blockbusters from Marvel and DC. Best you see for yourself, because Chronicle is on TV tonight.
Sci-Fi Action Chronicle: That’s what the film is about
The three high school students Andrew (Dane DeHaan), Steve (Michael B. Jordan) and Matt (Alex Russell) couldn’t be more different, but they are best friends. One night the trio discover a tunnel strange glowing objectthat seems out of this world. Apparently that’s the case, because the next day the three of them suddenly own it telekinetic abilities.
At first they only use their supernatural powers for all sorts of pranks and typical teenage shenanigans. However, they soon realize that their gift can also have more serious consequences for those around them. While Steve and Matt want to take a step back, Andrew continues to develop his skills. The teenager, bullied at school and abused by his father, also becomes increasingly lost in his dark thoughts. Can his friends prevent Andrew from escalating into violence?
Chronicle is a great superhero genre mix
Josh Trank, who once called Venom star Tom Hardy his lifesaver, created a highly immersive experience with Chronicle thanks to the fast-paced found footage production. In just 83 minutes of running time, it combines Coming-of-age drama, sci-fi action and superhero thriller an extremely captivating overall construct that never loses its credibility despite the supernatural events.
This is of course also due to the three main actors, who embody their characters authentically and relatably. Dane DeHaan (A Cure for Wellness) in particular provides Andrews Transformation from shy outsider to threatening violent criminal with an impressive intensity.
Even though Chronicle didn’t perform in Marvel spheres at the box office, it was a complete success economically. The film played on a budget of just $12 million more than tenfold again. However, the long-planned sequel has still been in limbo for years.
When is Chronicle on TV?
Tele 5 shows Chronicle – What are you capable of? tonight on November 23rd at 8:15 p.m. A repeat will not be broadcast.
If you don’t have time, you can also catch up on the extraordinary superhero film on Disney+. Chronicle can be seen there within the streaming flat rate.