The concept of “what if” serves as the fascinating starting point for all human thought. It acts as a bridge that connects the physical world to the metaphysical realm. This idea, so wonderfully explored in Blake Crouch’s gripping 2019 novel, Recursion, is revisited in the film Time Cut. A unique take on the time travel genre, Time Cut unfolds as a thrilling teen slasher film, providing an enjoyable prelude to Helena and Barry’s exploration of False Memory Syndrome in Recursion.
Time Cut delights in not taking itself too seriously, in contrast with some other weightier narratives that delve into the complexities of the space-time continuum. The story begins in April 2003 in the small town of Sweetly, where a ruthless killer targets four teenagers, among them Summer (Antonia Gentry) and her best friend Emmy (Megan Best). The identity of the killer remains a mystery, and Sweetly is left grappling with the aftermath of these gruesome murders.
Fast forward to 2024, where we meet Lucy (Madison Bailey), a talented teenager celebrating her acceptance into an internship program at NASA. Lucy is revealed to be the sister of Summer, born after her sister’s untimely death. Her household, composed of parents Gil (Michael Shanks) and Kendra (Rachael Crawford), continues to preserve Summer’s room as a shrine, haunted by memories of the past.
On the anniversary of Summer’s death, Lucy uncovers an unexpected discovery — a time machine. In a twist of fate, she inadvertently travels back to 2003, landing in a pivotal moment with the potential to change the course of history. Lucy is presented with the opportunity to prevent the Sweetly slayings and save her sister and the town. However, this mission comes at a personal cost, as it risks erasing her own existence.
.
The film dances with humor and nostalgia, with Lucy encountering the inevitable challenges of being a “fish-out-of-water.” As she navigates the unfamiliar landscape of the early 2000s, comical interactions abound, such as her puzzled reaction to Twitter and the noisy, old-school modems. These moments are peppered with also knowing nods to future wisdom, like cautioning against investing in BlackBerry.
During her journey, Lucy bonds with Summer, with their interactions including classic teen rituals like a makeover and a mall visit, further strengthening the emotional core of the film. Assisting Lucy in her quest is Quinn (Griffin Gluck), a physics enthusiast who aids in reconstructing the time machine’s missing components—a common trope in time travel narratives. Quinn’s reference to “Marty McFly” from the iconic Back to the Future series adds a delightful nod to the influences that shape Time Cut’s unique charm.
Visually, Time Cut exudes a bubblegum brightness that adds a layer of effervescence to the film. Despite its central theme involving a mysterious and violent killer, the film manages to maintain an uplifting tone throughout, culminating in a hopeful and spirited conclusion. Time Cut serves as a captivating ride—something that comfortably occupies your peripheral attention even as you let your mind wander over the mysteries of the universe or plan your next Diwaloween outfit.
This innovative film, currently streaming on Netflix, delivers a delightful mix of nostalgia, suspense, and humor. Its intriguing premise draws viewers into a world where past and present collide in a thrilling escapade. While exploring the intricate machinations of time travel, Time Cut also resonates with themes of family, loss, and the enduring hope for redemption.
In a fast-paced cinematic world graced with intense dramas and thought-provoking narratives, Time Cut stands out as a refreshingly light-hearted yet captivating film that pays homage to the genre while creating its distinct niche. As the credits roll, both time travel enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre will find themselves contemplating the ‘what ifs’ that make Time Cut a memorable addition to the realm of speculative cinema.
