Ruby’s Multiverse, directed and written by Kelly Helen Thompson, is a thrilling and imaginative dive into a cinematic universe like no other. At just 1 hour and 7 minutes, this sci-fi fantasy film is another captivating entry in Kelly’s unique body of work. Whether you’re familiar with her previous films or a newcomer, Ruby’s Multiverse brings everything together in an interconnected web that showcases Kelly’s creative brilliance.
The story picks up where The Tinkerman left off, with Ruby and her boyfriend, Ned, stepping through a time portal that leads them through multiple universes. This portal serves as a gateway to not only Ruby’s world but to the worlds of Lefty Lucy, Violet's Prey, The Assignment, A2: The Anomaly, and more. It’s a fascinating mix of all of Kelly’s previous films, merging them into a single, expansive multiverse. While it’s a lot to take in, this blend of stories creates a rich and captivating experience for fans of her work.
The plot jumps around quite a bit, and while this keeps things fresh and engaging, it can sometimes be tricky to follow. But that’s part of the charm of Kelly’s films—they refuse to be tied down to conventional structures. There’s a subplot about Ruby’s quest to find the last batch of Violet’s vampire-blood-based perfume, which grants strength and youth, only to rapidly age the user. It’s one of many threads weaving throughout the story, and it adds to the complexity and allure of the film.
In terms of the technical aspects, Ruby's Multiverse shines in a few key areas. First, the audio is impeccable. Kelly is known for her attention to detail, and the dialogue is clear and crisp, making it easy to follow the rapid-paced action without needing to rewind. The dialogue is a wonderful mix of humor, drama, and social commentary—tackling timely topics like COVID-19 with precision and relevance. This makes the film feel fresh and grounded, even in the midst of its fantastical multiverse setting. For that, I’d give the dialogue an A+.
The editing is tight and keeps the film moving at a brisk pace. The transitions between different universes and characters never feel jarring, and the film remains engaging throughout its short runtime. Kelly's DIY filmmaking style is evident here, and she manages to capture the essence of her vision without dragging scenes out longer than necessary. I’m giving the editing an A as well.
While the film's many character arcs can be hard to track, the performances are solid across the board. Kelly herself shines in multiple roles, including Ruby, Cassy, Lucy, and others, each adding a unique layer to the narrative. The supporting cast, including Gustavo Paraz as Clyde and Chris Chetta as Ned, also bring their A-game, providing the perfect complement to Kelly’s multifaceted performance.
One of the most significant changes from Kelly's previous films is the recasting of the character Greta, due to Abby Burgess' passing. While the new actress does a fine job, Abby's unique presence in earlier films is something hard to replicate. Still, the new actress fits into the story well and adds depth to her scenes.
Overall, Ruby's Multiverse is a solid entry in Kelly Helen Thompson’s impressive filmography. It blends humor, serious undertones, and thrilling sci-fi adventure into a unique cinematic experience. With its strong audio, witty dialogue, and solid editing, it delivers exactly what you’d expect from Kelly—something new, something fresh, and something that keeps you coming back for more.
Jessie Hobson