“Cold Storage” follows two employees at a self-storage company who have the wildest shift of their lives when a parasitic fungus escapes from government containment.
Setting the Tone
The film immediately establishes the threat – and its unserious tone. “Cold Storage” delivers unique styles of carnage, with constantly moving visuals showcasing what the parasite can accomplish.
On top of this, it throws in a song from The Beach Boys. By the time the title card appears, you should know exactly what you’re getting into with “Cold Storage.”
There’s no need to overthink it. Just sit back and enjoy the ride.
Even in its lore, “Cold Storage” maintains this fast-paced approach. Rather than taking up minutes, flashbacks or subplots that provide new information only last seconds. It’s not caught up in crafting a “great” story. Instead, the film is all gas, no brakes after putting the pieces in place.
Because of this, it’s classic B-movie fun. However, there are times when it all feels too nonchalant.
With such an unserious tone, “Cold Storage” is never able to elevate above its initial promise. The characters take nothing seriously, causing the overall threat to seem minimal when it should feel world-ending. Even as the terrors loom larger, the onscreen personas never really change to match this.
Performances and Characters
The performances alone do make the movie worth watching, however. “Cold Storage” has a stacked cast: Georgina Campbell (Naomi), Joe Keery (Travis), Liam Neeson (Robert), Sosie Bacon and more.
Campbell and Keery take the lead, playing similarly grounded yet different characters. Campbell is constantly upbeat, bringing wit to the screen at every moment. Keery says a lot of words, though his demeanor and delivery are quieter. The duo pairs well, though their connection is forced at times.
Neeson’s performance falls under the same umbrella as many of his recent roles. It’s not one of his most memorable outings, but he delivers small moments of comedy that earn laughs.
“Cold Storage” also features side characters that make an impact, specifically Vanessa Redgrave’s Ma Rooney and Aaron Heffernan’s Mike.
Visual Effects Bring Unique Carnage
The visual effects within “Cold Storage” are largely impressive. These aren’t flashy, but they get the job done. Specifically in instances of initial contact, the film creatively visualizes the fungus’ travels through its host. Not only that, but once its “explosive” nature begins, the CGI remains serviceable in more ways than one.
Mostly absent of red human blood and instead taking on a green, gooey form, “Cold Storage” is able to hide some of its shortcomings.
“Cold Storage” never goes above and beyond. But it’s a lot of fun. There are plenty of shortcomings, yet it has just enough charisma and carnage to make up for them.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
