Shriekfest 2014 Preview – International Premiere With ambitious style Alex Weight’s Prank is a tale of supernatural vengeance amidst the hustle and bustle of Halloween night as trick or treaters invade the streets of a leafy suburb. Among them are three boys, perhaps a little old for the usual holiday fun, who have one particular call they want to make; to an old friend who will definitely not be expecting them and may not be entirely pleased when he opens the door. Prank is a witty short film that builds toward a finale that is both surprisingly original and chillingly merciless.
There is a sense of brooding malevolence that slowly builds almost imperceptibly in the background as the three boys make their way to their goal, encountering disappointing Halloween treats and beer swilling bullies. What is most impressive about Weight’s tale is that despite including several familiar horror tropes and themes in his 9 minute production there is never a sense you have seen it all before.
With superb production values more in keeping with a much grander feature, and strong performances from the predominantly young cast, this is a film that undoubtedly delivers on its premise.
OVERALL SUMMARY
With a background in animation Weight has brought a classy aesthetic to a production that is darkly comedic and beautiful on the eye. Prank demonstrates everything that is brilliant about interesting and exciting short films and is definitely a must-see. Prank is screening in Short Program 4 at 2.00pm on Sunday 5th October.
