Jammed is a 2014 horror-thriller written and directed by Yedidya Gorsetman. It follows the story of a group of strangers who become trapped in a traffic jam on a deserted road outside Los Angeles. As they wait for the road to clear, tensions begin to rise, and strange occurrences start happening. The movie starts with the introduction of the main characters, including a young couple trying to rekindle their relationship, a salesman, and a pregnant woman, among others. They are all stuck in their cars, frustrated, and anxious to continue their journey. The situation becomes increasingly difficult, and the group discovers that they are not alone. Something sinister is lurking in the surrounding woods, and it's watching them.
As they begin to experience strange events, such as their radios broadcasting inexplicable messages and a sudden power outage, panic sets in. The group starts to unravel, and paranoia seeps in. Friendships crumble, and alliances are formed as they try to escape from the jam. At the same time, a mysterious man in a truck appears and starts to hunt them down.
One of the defining features of Jammed is its use of found footage. The characters use their phones and cameras to document what is happening around them, and the viewer is taken on a first-person ride through the group's harrowing journey. This technique immerses the audience in the film and creates a sense of chaos and terror.
Apart from the use of found footage, the film's strength lies in its ability to create a tense and ominous atmosphere. From the very beginning, the movie sets a foreboding tone, and the horror only increases as the story progresses. The isolated and claustrophobic setting, the eerie sound design, and the unpredictability of the events combine to create a nail-biting experience.
The acting in Jammed is solid, with each character bringing a unique personality to the group. The interpersonal dynamics between the characters are well-developed, and the actors do an excellent job of portraying the fear and anxiety that their characters are feeling. The standout performances are by David Bly, who plays the desperate salesman, and Shannon Coffey, who portrays the pregnant woman. The characters are relatable, and the audience cares about their fates.
The movie has its flaws, however. Some of the dialogue feels forced, and some of the character's actions are questionable. Some viewers might find the use of found footage too overwhelming, leading to a sense of nausea and disorientation. Additionally, the ending might not satisfy everyone, as it is left somewhat open-ended.
Overall, Jammed is a tense and gripping horror film that creates a sense of unease from start to finish. While it may not be for everyone, it's a commendable effort by director Yedidya Gorsetman and the cast and crew. If you're a fan of found footage horror or psychological thrillers, then Jammed is worth your time.