"Daft State" - movie review

Christopher Backus shines in Daft State, a haunting tale of grief and despair.

Coping with sadness and grief is an inevitable part of life after loss. Whether it’s a family member or a loved one, the absence of shared moments can transform into our darkest nightmares. With Daft State, Chad Bishoff crafts a harrowing tale of mourning, regret, and despair.

Christopher Backus stars as Easton, a man unraveling after a tragic loss. Rather than seeking therapy or healthy coping mechanisms, he plunges into a self-destructive spiral of alcohol and pills. Daft State explores substance dependency and the fragility of the human psyche when faced with unimaginable loss.

Backus anchors the film with a compelling performance, carrying much of its emotional weight. While Easton interacts with various characters—from friends to service workers—it’s the lingering presence of those he’s lost that haunts him most. Bishoff, along with co-writer Sam Harter, delves into the devastation of a mind consumed by guilt and the inability to let go.

Despite Backus’s strong portrayal, Daft State often feels less like a psychological thriller and more like an unrelenting meditation on regret. The supernatural elements, reminiscent of J-horror, add intrigue but fail to elevate the film into the realm of true terror. Instead, it plays out like a prolonged episode of emotional dread. Viewers drawn to Backus’s performance may appreciate this “doom loop,” but those craving something more intense or graphic might feel underwhelmed.

That said, the film’s gothic undertones and atmospheric despair do leave an impression. Daft State isn’t for everyone, but for those seeking a somber, reflective story, it may resonate. As a reminder of the importance of cherishing life and facing grief head-on, it offers a poignant, if heavy, experience.

Rating: 2.5/5

Directed By: Chad Bishoff

Written By: Sam Harter & Chad Bishoff

Cast: Christopher Backus, Skye P. Marshall, Ka’ramuu Kush, Paulo Costanzo, Jake T. Austin, Iman Karram

Produced By: Erich Hover, Chad Bishoff

Executive Producers: Mira Sorvino, Inny Clemons, Brett Cullen, Lisa Crnic

Music by: Mike McCready