Project Thorn: The Following

A great sequel to the first film. If not better. From the start Project Thorn: The Following is led by an empowering soundtrack. The addition of Eli Johnson feels wasted but it sets up the main plot. It's great to see The Mask have lots more screen time compared to Project Thorn. Jacob Fountain physically brings The Mask to life in this and proves how scary he can be. Brandon returning as Vince is great as he gets more of the spotlight unlike it's predecessor. The only mixed thing about this film is the climax. It feels a little bit rushed with what seems to have cut scenes. The end credits scenes builds up massive hype for next year!

Budget Productins have been on a good run since the release of Gray Cade vs The Jacket. In that fashion Project Thorn: The Following continues the higher quality short film run. It's looks good, sounds good and is a satisfying conclusion to the Project Thorn duology. The Mask is given much deserved screen time to showcase how terrifying he really can be, Vince Dickinson is yet again charming and we learn a bit more about him this time round with the absence on Richie Jackson. Eli Johnson feels worthless as he's only in the film for sound 40 seconds. The ending felt a little bit rushed but teases what's to come!

The first half of this short film is a soundtrack masterpiece. The music used is so good! With some hints to Project Thorns soundtrack, this one doubles down and makes Project Thorn: The Following stand out. It's shot very well with some shots paying homage to Project Thorn. Eli Johnson isn't in it a lot but if he interested to see more of his character in a spin-off or another short film. The Mask this time round is badass. He has so much screen time, his appearance doesn't look as goofy as what it did in the predecessor. Vince Dickinsons return is good to see as his screen time was done dirty in Project Thorn.

Is it better than Project Thorn? Maybe. I feel like both have pros and cons. Project Thorn feels more complete as a short films and feels longer, yet being shorter. Project Thorn: The Following has better moments with The Mask, who dominates screen time. This also has a better soundtrack, using a couple track from the first but the new tracks are darker and sinister feeling than the 80's slasher type used in Project Thorn. I hope Jack Vickers continues making solo projects as the Project Thorn duology only feels like the beginning. A longer film by him would be good to see in my opinion. Bring on VW3!!!