PopHorror Let's Get Scared
Whether the short story is in book or movie format, I am a mega fan of short stories. I always look forward to reviewing these the most. I was ecstatic to review the ‘Women in Horror’ short film block for the 2025 Happenstance Horror Fest. Read on to find out what I thought of this amazing block of shorts.
Cringe (2025)
Directed by Lisa Ovies
Synopsis:
Life can be hard. But for Lila, being a functioning adult is harder.
My Thoughts:
This one was a great opener to the block. I didn’t see any of the events coming and I definitely had a good laugh too.
The Resonance
Directed by Sashia R. Dumont and Paul Robinson
Synopsis:
When a sinister force threatens to blur the line between modern medicine and religion, a psychologist is forced to question her predecessor’s untimely demise.
My Thoughts:
This short is definitely up my alley, if it’s religion and horror, I am so in. Set in the 1970s, even better! This is a creepy watch that made the hair on the back of my neck stand. I also absolutely loved the retro vibe. The set and wardrobe captured the year 1979 perfectly.
Multilevel Massacre
Directed by Ashes Homon-Rahall
Synopsis:
A young woman tries to escape an epidemic plaguing women of America only to realize that she can’t outrun her destiny. It’s a pyramid scream.
My Thoughts:
This one is so much fun! And completely relatable, definitely portrays the world we live in and the pressures it brings.
Manicured
Directed by Tracy Lynn Rohach
My Thoughts:
This one is about a failed costume party where no on shows up. Two friends discover they actually are not actually alone and someone is there to try and kill them. This one has a tense feel of a classic slasher and has just enough gore and I definitely cheered on the the final girl!
Betty
Directed by Leticia Buchanan
Synopsis:
Dr. Joseph Banta embarks on a self-proclaimed mission to save the world, aided by his AI servant, Betty, designed to fulfill his unconventional desires and execute his mission to rid the world of evil, regardless of the grim outcome.
My Thoughts:
This one, was nothing I expected at all. Just wow! It is a little graphic as a heads up, but it’s the perfect end to this short. Loved the sci fi element to it as well and incorporating AI.
Rabbit Season
Synopsis:
Rabbit “Bunny” Rowe puts her will to survive to the test as she is hunted in the woods by Jack, a man who lets her get a head start in his favorite game. Will Bunny fall victim? Or does she have a few tricks up her sleeve?
Directed by Spooky Madison
My Thoughts:
This one is so creative and is and another short I cheered the main character.
Midnight Snack
Directed by Abby Brenker and Alan Kundan.
My Thoughts:
This short is about an Uber ride that doesn’t end well for one of the two people in the car. This one was one of my favorites of the block. You will definitely be thinking of this short the next time you take an Uber.
Las Paredes Del Horror (The Walls of Horror)
Directed by Rosaicela Enriquez Santallan
My Thoughts:
This one is visually stunning. The set has a modern gothic feel and is gorgeous. I cringed and had to look away quite a bit during this one, I won’t ruin it as to why, but let’s just say, I didn’t know the human body could contort that many ways.
A Mother’s Love
Directed by Lisa Ovies
Synopsis:
A young girl deals with the consequences of trusting a man online.
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this short and sweet revenge story. A mother should always have your back and this mother definitely had her daughter’s back.
The Women in Horror block was perfect blend of all types of horror. Something for every fan. A fun ride! I loved all of these shorts! Thank you to all the filmmakers for these killer short films and thank you Happenstance Film Fest.
