Session 9

Few films could say that underdeveloped technology worked to a film’s advantage in its execution. Session 9 however is one of those few. As the first film to use video technology shot at 24 frames per second, Session 9 explores a group of for hire asbestos cleaners inside their job at an abandoned mental asylum. As time passes each character begins to devote their own personal interests into the asylum while tensions begin to grow between one another. Mirroring this aspect of the story is another story that dives into the history of a former patient at the asylum. Through interview tapes discovered by one of the workers, the horror that exists within the walls of the asylum is revealed to us and the mystery that is presented to us is unraveled, enough to leave you pondering the remaining the secrets the asylum may hold.

What may be viewed as Session 9’s biggest crutch, the use of new underdeveloped technology, in reality aids to the raw horror atmosphere of the film. The digital technology employed gives us less of a sense that we’re viewing a typical narrative, but more were gazing into a home video and watching the action unfold. This style is carried throughout the whole film as it immerses the viewer. The atmosphere is also affected highly by the soundtrack employed in the film, while not a typical score, the music’s near ambient textures aid in being a presence through the picture. The soundscapes seemingly stitched together bring a sense of creepiness that’s felt with the insertion of atypical sounds such as the rolling of chains, subtle hints of voices and the disintegration of music into mood pieces.  The story while original, never focuses beyond that of its main protagonist Gordon. However, each individual’s personalities are shown through their actions which in turn help to move the story forward. For example, Hank’s greedy personality eventually leads to his own disappearance, helping to progress the other plot-lines  Lastly, the director’s choice of choosing to shoot in and around an actual abandoned asylum added to the already apparent realism of the film. Much of the production design came from the actual props left in the asylum, including its decrepit walls. This choice, along with the music and camera work, effectively aids in the goal of creating an atmospheric horror film, leaving it as a recognizable standout against the ongoing wave of slasher porn films.