PopHorror Let's Get Scared
If you’ve never watched a horror short, you’re truly missing out. I’ll never stop being amazed at how beautiful, well-crafted and horrifying these stories can be in just a short amount of time. It’s impressive and not everyone can pull it off.
While covering the 2018 Brooklyn Horror Film Festival, I had the opportunity to cover films for the Home Invasion Shorts Block. All of them were unique, special, and brilliant in their own way. Read on to find out more!
Home Invasion Shorts Block!
El Cuco is Hungry – Directed by Daniel Garcia
I love stories about mythical folklore, and this one was absolutely perfect. Up until recently, I never heard about El Cuco, but between this short and another feature film, I’m all up to date on this Mexican boogeyman, and I love the legend. This short was executed perfectly. Just enough run time to get make my pulse to beat fast and send goosebumps down my spine. I also thought the cinematography was beautiful.
The Woods – Directed by Robbie Lemieux
The Woods was short, straight to the point, and absolutely terrifying. As we’ve learned by now, nothing good ever comes from wandering in the woods, and in this short, that message has never been more true. It was unexpected and hauntingly whimsical.
An Actor Prepares – Directed by Carey Knight
What better way to prepare for a sinister role than by practicing on a willing victim? Well, maybe not willing, but utterly clueless is more like it. This was a super fun short that was dark, unique, and a bloody good time.
Fell – Directed by Holly Voges
The thing I loved most about this film was the beautiful aesthetics. The filmmakers created an eerie yet friendly atmosphere that I fell in love with. Beyond that, this is, hands down, one of the more unique and heartbreaking stories I’ve seen in awhile. It will give you goosebumps.
The Trouble With One-Night Stands – Directed by A.K. Espada and Belén Ferrer
I’ve had the privilege of seeing this one before the Home Invasion Shorts Block, and I liked it just as much the second time around It’s fun, quirky and it makes you second guess who you take home with you. It has a delightful twist that is sure to please audiences.
Abeyance – Directed by Charles Beale
Abeyance definitely stood out among the other shorts in the Home Invasion Shorts Block because it was more of a sci-fi horror, but no less terrifying. I hate the thought of being trapped in such a small box, completely aware of your surroundings but unable to move or speak. It’s nauseating to think about and made me feel utterly claustrophobic.
Hushed – Directed by Chase Kuertz
This short was super intense from beginning to end. Every family member is dreading dinner that night in fear of what might happen if just one of them says the wrong thing. It delivers a surprisingly sinister twist that I didn’t see coming.
Lucy’s Tale – Directed by Chelsea Lupkin
Lucy’s Tale was probably my favorite one of the Home Invasion Shorts Block. I just loved everything about it. It was very much so inspired by Stephen King’s Carrie but with it’s own twists and turns. It’s definitely one I would love to see made into a full feature, because it has immense potential. Lucy’s story isn’t over for me!
4:48 Psychosis – Directed by Ariel Sinelnikoff
This short was compact, sweet, and creepy. It reminded me of something straight from a nightmare… the kind that’s ridiculously bizarre yet feels so real. I also feel like the story could have several different metaphors depending on who you are.
Witch Hunt – Directed by Conor Shillen and Justin Paul Ramirez
You know I’m a sucker for films about witches, so of course I loved Witch Hunt. The beginning was beautifully shot, and I was impressed with the aesthetics and old time atmosphere. The plot did one in transition into present time, and I loved the story that went along with it. This is a fun revenge story with great kills.
The Invaders – Directed by Mateo Márquez
This is another one I’ve seen before, and it’s such a great short, one that is unlike any other film out there. It’s got a creative story with a great performance by Isra Elsalihie. Although there’s not much dialogue throughout the film, it’s the intense atmosphere that really hooks you… the horror of the unknown.
This about wraps up my review of the Home Invasion Shorts Block from this year’s Brooklyn Horror Film Festival. Have you seen any of the shorts in this block? What did you think? Let us know in the comments!
