BRIAR is a totally compelling short film that leaves you turning the story and images over in your head well after having watched it. Even though this short takes place during the pandemic, it really feels like a metaphor for any individual who wants to move forward in a world that is stuck. The film opens with a close up of an old tv and images on the tv. This along with the eerie "jewelry box" soundtrack feels like the beginning of a demented fairytale. This sense of innocence continues once we meet Briar (played wonderfully by Briana Hurley) as we close in on her angelic, almost porcelain face. I find this all to be a great setup for when the actual "horror" of the film comes into play. The sense of mood is very strong in this film. The cinematography (by the incredibly talented Arthur Woo) along with the use of color and sound creates this beautifully surreal and sinister world that feels both intimate and lonely at the same time. The film is brief and leaves the viewer with a lot of questions, which I think is a good thing. Did it really happen? Was it all in her head? I highly recommended watching BRIAR and deciding for yourself.
