Eternal Code (2019)

Director: Harley Wallen

Writer: Harley Wallen

Starring: Richard Tyson, Scout Taylor-Compton, Billy Wirth, Yan Birch, Mel Novak, Erika Hoveland

It is proving to be another busy year for award winning filmmaker Harley Wallen, who is currently working on an several projects which are in various stages of production. In a new review I got an opportunity to take look at his latest feature Eternal Code, which Harley wrote, directed and stars in.

Breaking all moral and ethical codes, a genetic research company has developed a miracle device to sustain human life for the rich and powerful. When the company’s CEO (Erika Hoveland) refuses to approve these illegal methods, she and her husband (Billy Wirth) are kidnapped by a team of mercenaries (Scout Taylor-Compton, Harley Wallen) hired by Oliver (Richard Tyson) to keep them out of the way. Fearing for her parents’ lives, their teenage daughter (Angelina Danielle Cama) must develop an unlikely ally (Damien Chinappi) to save her parents from those who would kill to live forever. 

Eternal Code is a new sci-fi thriller from Harley who continues to push the boundaries as an independent filmmaker; and whilst he is still working once again on a modest budget this is his most ambitious film to date. Incorporating the theme of the fountain of youth, Eternal Code gives a modern retelling of the story, incorporating the technological advances with the evolution of science. With both power and greed proving to be the catalyst for proceeding events.

As with several of Harleys previous films Eternal Code is a multi-layered story, in which the lives of several seemingly unrelated characters are somehow brought together. Whilst it does feel at first that the film may be laden with the various stories, as the events progresses simultaneously they begin to merge naturally. So despite incorporating so many elements into the story it never feels convoluted or loses focus of the main underlying themes.

With the introductions the film does get off to a slow start to the fim and it is difficult to see what direction the film is going to go. The board room scenes start to build up the tensions between the characters with hostile negotiations regarding the future of the company, whilst other areas of the film look to incorporate a very different theme. I can understand the messages they are trying to put across regarding preconceptions, helping each other and even the inclusion of a surprising cooking montage, but some of these moments do come across as a bit contrived. With that being said, these scenes are only used initially to portray the mentality of the characters and it isn’t long before it changes to a more consistent, darker tone throughout. Once events start to fall into place it quickly picks up the pace and begins to unfold as an intelligent and entertaining thriller.

It is credit to Harleys and his previous work which has enabled him to once again bring together an impressive cast. Whilst Richard Tyson, Billy Wirth and Yan Birch are now becoming familiar faces, it is great to see the addition of Scout Taylor-Comp and Mel Novak who have joining the talented cast. Whilst not all of the names cast get as much screen time as I would have liked, they are all incorporated brilliantly into the main story and are able to make an impact with some memorable performances.

They say it is more fun to play the villain and several of the cast seem to embellish the opportunity in Eternal Code. Richard Tyson seems to have found his niche playing the bad guy in recent years and once again delivers another menacing performance as the Oliver, whose motivation for power often sees him often come across as narcissistic and menacingly callous. Whilst he proves more than happy to takes on various roles to get the job done, he hires a team of mercenaries led by the nonsense and calm headed Sam played by Harley. A description which cannot be said for his associates who are a lot less predictable.

Shane Hagedorn is understandably cast as the muscle of the group whose conscience has been left at the door when it comes to getting things done, and Scout Taylor Compton is the hot tempered charlie who also carries an element of unpredictability. Compton may have a supporting role but manages to make an impact with her performance, especially with her intimidating presence when behind the mask.

On the apposing side Damien Chinappi is impressive as the veteran Corey, an ex veteran with a good heart, who has unfortunately found himself on the streets. Having worked with Harley previously on Betrayed (2018) , he obviously made enough of an impression to bring him back in one of the films pivotal roles.

Billy Wirth delivers a good performance as you would expect, although playing against the normal scenarios, it is Erika Hoveland who really stands up as the headstrong Bridget when they are kidnapped. It becomes a psychological battle between Hoveland and her capture, creating an uncertain tension as you are unsure how Compton will respond which keeps you on edge.

Visually some of Harleys previous films have had a more static approach with the cinematography, concentrating more on capturing the performances of the actors, with the action really brought to life during editing stage. Whilst Eternal Code does start off with a similar style, as the film goes on the camerawork begins to undertake a freer flowing movement as the dynamics of the film slowly change. This really adds to the intensity of the action and begins to draw you more into the scenes.

Eternal Code is an intelligent modern take on a classic story which has been recreated through the evolution of science. Though technology may not yet be this advanced, the story does reflect some realities regarding how the medical profession is evolving and how some people want to see it being used. Built around a solid script and strong performances from the cast Eternal Code is a well executed entertaining thriller. There are a few areas where you feel the film made have added some unnecessary elements into the mix, but overall it does manage to keep a good balance. Harley once again shows his abilities of what he can do as an independent filmmaker and as he continues to move onto bigger projects, he is definitely an emerging filmmaker to watch out for.

Philip Rogers

Published in various websites, Philip is a reviewer who is best known for his interviews and media coverage of independent projects including; films, books, theatre and live events. Always on the lookout for something different to cover!