Watch The Rainbow Experiment

The Rainbow Experiment is a captivating indie film that explores the aftermath of an accidental explosion that occurred at a high school in New York City. Directed by Christina Kallas and featuring a talented cast that includes Christian Coulson, Kevin Kane, and Francis Benhamou, this movie is a mesmerizing blend of drama, thriller, and black comedy.

The film follows the story of a group of students at the high school who are directly affected by the explosion. As the investigation into the incident progresses, it becomes clear that things are not as straightforward as they seem. Each of the characters is connected to the explosion in some way, and their individual perspectives and experiences provide a unique insight into the events that unfolded.

The plot is structured around an experimental play that the drama teacher, Ms. Rubin (played by Francis Benhamou), has been working on with her students. The play, titled "The Rainbow Experiment," is a complex and abstract work that deals with themes of perception, identity, and reality. The explosion occurs during a performance of the play and sets off a chain of events that disrupts the lives of the characters in significant ways.

The film is shot in a frenetic and fast-paced style that mirrors the chaos and confusion that the characters are experiencing. The use of split screens, quick cuts, and handheld cameras creates a sense of urgency and tension that builds throughout the narrative. The music is also a standout feature of the movie, with a pulsating and eclectic soundtrack that helps to set the tone for each scene.

The performances in The Rainbow Experiment are uniformly excellent, with each actor bringing their unique energy and personality to their roles. Christian Coulson, who plays the school principal, is particularly impressive, delivering a nuanced and understated performance that captures the complexity of his character. Kevin Kane, who portrays a local news anchor, is also noteworthy, injecting his scenes with a sense of humor and self-awareness that is refreshing.

Despite its complex narrative structure and heavy themes, The Rainbow Experiment is never preachy or didactic. Instead, it presents a nuanced and multi-layered portrait of a community grappling with the aftermath of a tragic event. The film is an exploration of the human condition, and the ways in which people cope with trauma and loss.

One of the film's most significant strengths is its willingness to tackle difficult and uncomfortable subjects head-on. The Rainbow Experiment deals with issues such as mental illness, substance abuse, and sexual assault with sensitivity and care. The movie does not shy away from the darker side of humanity, but it also finds moments of humor and lightness in the midst of the darkness.

Overall, The Rainbow Experiment is a bold and ambitious film that defies easy categorization. It is part drama, part thriller, part social commentary, and part absurdist comedy. The movie is a testament to the power of independent cinema, and the creative risks that can be taken when filmmakers are given the freedom to explore complex and challenging themes. It is a must-see for anyone who is looking for a movie that will challenge and surprise them, and leave them thinking long after the credits have rolled.

The Rainbow Experiment is a 2018 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 10 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5.