Dir. Eric Valette,USA, 2010, 81 mins, English
Cast. Shannon Becker, Oded Fehr, Ryan Kennedy
Reviewed by Michelle Moore
There are many animals in the world that are able to camouflage themselves such as lizards, butterflies and insects; some in order to hunt while others to hide. However there has never been camouflage quite like this. This hybrid creature has been able to hide itself away from humanity since the beginning of time, camouflaging itself from the outside world in the form of a car, (more often than not a flashy model to entice victims inside) which allows for anonymity as well as mobility, and the ability to alter its shape and healing when it was necessary. It has been able to hide from the human race, until now.
Hybrid 3D begins with two drunken youths exploring a flamboyant car they have found on the street, keys in the ignition and doors open. However, upon entering they soon discover this is no ordinary car. The story that unravels is set in a police impound garage and follows its workers as they come face to bumper with this unique and deadly creature.
There have been several situations with unique cars in films over the years; Knight Rider was advanced, artificially intelligent and nearly indestructible while Christine had a consciousness. Although the thought of an undiscovered creature hiding in the form of a car, is a little out there, and while not nearly as impressive, it is very intriguing to view. The car changes shape like a shape shifter, has the ability to heal itself, paint that has never been experienced before, a sound under the hood like no car engine and the ability to appear as if from nowhere.
There are several scenes in the movie that will leave a viewer shocked, bewildered and mesmerised. The sudden realisation of what lies beneath the hood of this car will have a viewer shocked, as it is so unexpected; where an engine should be there is none. Likewise, the scene where one character climbs into a police car is by all means one of the most shocking and could literally leave a viewer with their mouth open wide. When the car is finally crushed and the creature’s true nature takes hold it is startling and very impressive, and the twist at the end is unforeseen.
In terms of casting, although many actors are fairly unknown, Oded Fehr is probably most familiar; they play their character roles remarkably well. They are able to flow with emotions, from cocky and rude to terrified and fighting for their lives. With plenty of shocks and some bizarre car antics, Hybrid 3D is a great addition to the list of crazed car movies.


