Watch Caged (2021) online

Thrilling, fast paced, and a very enjoyable watch are the first things that come to mind after viewing Caged. The cast is phenomenal. Gathegi's heart felt performance shoulders the dramatic weight of the film. Is Caged flawless, no. But... if you're a film fan looking to discover a talented new director, this film is one you should definitely see. The film is difficult to watch at times. In just under 90 minutes, the director makes a series of big choices that limits the perspective of the audience, creating a hypnotic atmosphere that's both claustrophobic and disturbing. Sticking to the protagonist's POV throughout film is bold, a decision that definitely makes this film seem fresh and unlike other prison projects. Would I have liked to see the supporting cast developed more, sure, though it would be a different movie, one I can't honestly say I'd be more excited to see. This seemed like a film with limited resources that cleverly leaned into a very relatable story about isolation. The filmmaker cultivated a legitimate sense of dread that stuck with me long after the credits rolled. I look forward to seeing what this director and his team do next.