Weak Species

I saw this film at FilmOut San Diego. Even though it was a short, it stuck with me more than any other film I saw at the festival, including the features. It's a harrowing story about two self-destructive, self-deluded teens who make bad decisions that get them in deep trouble. Not for the faint of heart, this film takes you to a really dark place in its short running time. Without giving anything away, I was on the edge of my seat as the main character got himself into an incredibly terrifying situation.

The acting of Eric Smith, who I remember from Home at the End of the World a few years back, was incredible. He has really developed his acting chops over the years and he is just great to watch here. The other actors all range from very good to excellent. The story is directed with a steady hand, and the performances are all the more powerful for being restrained, creating a quivering intensity you can't look away from. The production values are high.

Perhaps what impressed me the most was the way the film bridged the better elements of a traditional drama with the better elements of suspense/horror. The film was frightening to me on a very deep level.