Is Your Perfect Life a Horror Movie Waiting to Happen? A Look at 'Sharp Corner'

Ben Foster takes on the role of Josh in 'Sharp Corner,' a seemingly ordinary man whose life takes a dark turn when a series of fatal car accidents begin to occur in his front yard. The film, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, explores the unsettling underbelly of the 'perfect' life, asking us to confront the idea that sometimes, the things we strive for most can become our greatest nightmares. But is Josh truly a villain, or is he simply a product of his environment? The film's director, Justin Buxton, seems to suggest that Josh's obsession with control stems from a deep-seated fear of mortality and a lack of genuine connection with himself and the world around him. We see Josh desperately trying to regain a sense of order and purpose in a universe that seems increasingly chaotic. This raises the question: what happens when our carefully constructed facades crumble, and we are forced to confront the raw, unsettling truth of our existence? Foster himself describes Josh as a man who has 'gone through the paces' of modern middle-class life, living a life devoid of 'depth or introspection. ' He's the 'guy at Costco,' the 'guy at Starbucks,' the 'guy in the pharmacy. 'A relatable figure, perhaps, but one who is ultimately disconnected from the very fabric of his own life. Buxton and Foster seem to be suggesting that the 'Instagram-type life,' with its carefully curated images and relentless pursuit of perfection, can be a breeding ground for anxiety, dread, and ultimately, violence. The film's use of horror tropes, juxtaposed with the mundane reality of Josh's suburban existence, creates a chilling sense of unease. It's a reminder that even in the seemingly safest spaces, darkness can lurk just beneath the surface. 'Sharp Corner' offers a disturbing glimpse into the potential consequences.