‘Double Booked’ opens with an evocative title sequence, a perfect tease of what is about to unfold. Set within the walls of a suburban Airbnb, the film introduces us to its three key players – Ethan (Salustiano Berrios), Chloe (April Turner), and Sylvia (Jaqueline Lopez). It’s a cozy home, ideal for a weekend getaway. – until it isn’t. Unbeknownst to them, the house has been double-booked, and the conflict is soon unleashed.
Oscar Domino’s direction strikes a confident balance between drama and thriller, making the most of a tight setting. The film rewards viewers with decent production values, competent cinematography, and solid sound design. However, it’s the tone – heightened by an unorthodox use of incidental music – that adds a layer of tension, building an atmosphere that’s as uneasy as it is compelling.
As the narrative progresses, things are upended further, and the tale takes a dark turn (sparked from a mischievous smile in the mirror), which culminates in a sharp twist that reveals the true nature of the characters – and the sinister dynamics at play. The film’s core themes of manipulation, sociopathy, and false pretenses will leave you eager for much more.
Jaqueline Lopez takes ownership of the screen as Sylvia. Her presence throughout anchors the film’s themes, and her unpredictable actions heighten the intrigue, making the audience crave a lot more. While the acting is solid across the board, Lopez’s performance undeniably pulls up the film.
Though the film could benefit from minor tweaks in editing and sound, ‘Double Booked’ remains a strong effort by Domino and Cinemagic Media. It’s a gripping twist-filled thriller that unravels the dark side of manipulation and deception. A worthy watch.
