In a series of interviews conducted by friends, family and experts, they all discuss the sudden disappearance of Reid, Darren and Ben, three best friends who are also conspiracy theorists. Reid, who is the leader of the pack, is noted by his sister and colleagues for changing his behavior and lifestyle; in the 3 months leading up to his disappearance, Reid became obsessed with UFOs, extraterrestrial encounters and Area 51. This obsession lead him to losing his job and distancing himself from his family.
Next, a shaky camcorder records Reid, Darren and Ben driving to a house party. At the party, they have lots of fun, but when Reid is dared into performing karaoke, he disappears after a brief blackout occurs. Thinking he just took off, Darren and Ben continue partying without him. On their way home, the two of them encounter Reid standing in the middle of the road.
Despite appearing dazed and quietsome, Reid says he’s fine. The film then forwards three months later to where Reid, Darren and Ben are seen packing for a trip to Area 51, in which they plan to break into. They have extensive equipment to help them break in including a machine that knocks out cellphone signals, night vision goggles and pills to mask their ammonia levels (the base has ammonia detectors).
The group travels to Las Vegas, where they meet Reid’s friend, Jelena, another conspiracy theorist. Jelena reveals her father worked at Area 51, but got fired for “asking too many questions”. Upon his death, he made Jelena hide all his secret files regarding the base before authorities could seize them. While reviewing her father’s documents in a storage locker, Jelena explains the true Area 51 base is in fact a mile below ground. She also mentions that her father was particularly interested in a top-secret section only known as “S4”. They uncover a photograph of an old man, who Jelena claims her father was constantly following.
Area 51 is a science-fiction horror film, written and directed by Oren Peli. The film stars Benjamin Rovner, Reid Warner and Darrin Bragg. The film was released in a limited release and through video on demand on May 15, 2015 by Paramount Insurge.
Area 51
Directed by: Oren Peli
Starring: Darrin Bragg, Reid Warner, Ben Rovner, Jelena Nik, Frank Novak, Jennefer Ludwigsen, Bradley Laise, Jenna Thornsberry, Amelia Thornsberry
Screenplay by: Christopher Denham, Oren Peli
Production Design by: Patrick M. Sullivan Jr.
Cinematography by: Todd Grossman
Film Editing by: Blake Maniquis, Jake York
Costume Design by: Amy Brownson
Set Decoration by: Mark J. Mullins
MPAA Rating: R for language throughout, and some sexuality / nudity.
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Release Date: May 15, 2015
Visits: 72
