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 Waking Karma (2023) Movie | M-Cinema24

If you're looking for a movie with heart and ambition, "Waking Karma" may be just what you're looking for. Despite a few missteps, this film is a testament to strong performances and sincere production, with everyone involved striving to create something truly memorable. 

Directed by Carlos Montaner and Liz Fania Werner, who also wrote the script, "Waking Karma" follows the story of Karma (played by Hannah Christine Shetler), the daughter of a cult leader who committed a heinous crime by murdering 11 people. Karma and her mother Sunny (Kimberly Alexander) live off-the-grid, hiding from the cult who may find them and drag them back to hell. While the film may bear some superficial resemblance to other "fugitive family" thrillers, it stands out with its impressive use of a minimal budget and viewer perception.

One of the most impressive things about "Waking Karma" is the commitment of the entire cast, with Shetler delivering a standout performance as Karma. She displays an impressive range of emotions, from horror film histrionics to domestic drama-style confrontations with hard truths, to action heroine resourcefulness. Michael Madsen also delivers a chilling performance as the cult leader, evoking memories of Dennis Hopper's legendary performances. 

However, the film's biggest flaw lies in its filmmaking. While the lighting and compositions are mostly serviceable, they are largely unmemorable except for a few nightmare bits. The editing can also feel haphazard at times, leading viewers to question whether some actors in scenes built of alternating close-ups were ever in the same room at the same time.