Third Contact

Synopsis

Psychotherapist David Wright runs a private practice in London but is struggling to motivate himself. Memories of lost love torment him, while Rene, a client, has committed suicide and David is now in such a state he considers following the same path. Meanwhile, another client also talks of suicide; but this is "quantum suicide" – a thought experiment which implies immortality for conscious beings. Rene's sister, Erika Maurer, finds his apartment is almost empty except for one cup, spoon, fork and knife, frames without pictures, a torn family photo and a list of memories – four dated descriptions of specific moments in his life. David meets Erika, as she seeks to understand his state of mind, and the two damaged souls look to each other for some kind of comfort. Another client, Helen, acting strangely, walks out of her session. But when he discovers Helen has met the same fate as Rene, leaving behind another mysterious list of memories, David is drawn into an obsessive investigation, determined to find out who or what is responsible before any more lives are lost.

Release

After successfully raising £15,000 on kickstarter.com for theatrical distribution, the film received its global premiere at the BFI IMAX on 2 September 2013.

Reception

Critic Thomas Rothschild said, "It is no exaggeration to say it's quite the masterpiece and a sensational debut by Horrocks, director and cameraman." Ralph Sziegoleit wrote, "An inner journey is described in this difficult but fascinating film. One of the kind that quite often was the beginning of a great career." Katie-Jane Hall said it was difficult "to convey the sheer artistic brilliance and visual beauty that the work possesses".