"Cube" (1997) Review

A group of 6 strangers find themselves trapped in a maze of cubes without any reason as to why they have been placed there. In a race against time, they must work together to find their way out before it's too late. 

"Cube" is a 1997 sci-fi thriller film written by Andre Bijelic, Graeme Mason, and Vicenzo Natali, and also directed by Vicenzo Natali. This film was a rental I remember bringing home from the video store way back in the day. "Cube" is an independent film with a humble budget, but its strength lies within its concept and wanting to know what will happen next. How does "Cube" stack up amongst the other thrillers out there? Let's find out!

Starring Maurice Dean Wint (Quentin), Nicole de Boer (Leaven), David Hewlett (Worth), Andrew Miller (Kazan), Nicky Guadagni (Holloway), Wayne Robson (Rennes), and finally Julian Richings (Alderson), "Cube" really relies on its characters to carry the film. Without a large budget, and only a few special effect-filled scenes, without a tight cast, "Cube" would fail miserably. Fortunately, the ensemble cast of characters does a good job at keeping the viewer guessing.

There aren't really many stand-out actors in "Cube," but overall the acting isn't terrible as compared with other low budget features. That's not to say that there isn't some overacting occasionally--all things considered, that's acceptable. The writers managed to set up enough twists and turns in the script to keep the tension up, and that's also another strong point of the film.

"Cube" is a sort of predecessor to "Saw" in some ways, in that the rooms of the cube are sometimes trapped. The traps vary from acid spraying, flame throwing, and also really cool sharp objects to slice up the unwitting victim who steps in. Those scenes are well done, and the visual effects are pretty decent for the film's small budget. It's quite amazing what the filmmakers were able to pull off with just a set of four walls. 

On the more technical side of things, the director succeeds at ramping up the suspense and creating a claustrophobic feel to the film. I would say the editing is acceptable, but nothing too special. There were a few scenes that left some action out that probably should have been left in. Otherwise though, "Cube"'s directing and editing are quite good for an independent movie. 

It's a lesser-known thriller that I think should have gotten more attention upon its release. This is how low budget films should be done. 

If you're into sci-fi thrillers, I would suggest checking this one out! It's on NetFlix right now! 😎

The Good-

• Strong suspense and twists
• Capable cast of characters
• Cool traps
• Good use of budget  

The Bad-

• Some overacting (not much though!)
• The editing is a bit off, but not too bad

Forgive the lack of photos--I don't want to spoil it for you!