October 28th, 2014: We go about our lives virtually oblivious to the subtle changes that could have a profound impact on our next week, next day next minute. A morning that starts out with such promise may descend into the nether regions of a limitless abyss without warning. This is the story obstacle challenging our blissfully in love couple in Director Alrik Bursell’s supernatural short, “STRANGE THING.”
The domesticity of life has quickly enveloped every facet of newlyweds Kris (Hali Lula Hudson) and Jake’s (David O’Donnell) union. We open on some light playful kitchen banter as our young couple debates the subtle, erotic and aromatic qualities of thyme in food. A quick cut away to their wedding photo on the book shelf only further reinforces the love we see on screen. The next morning sees early riser Jake rustling up some breakfast as Kris languishes in an extended sleep. Homage to the Sci-fi sensibilities is peppered throughout the apartment. From figurines, Spock busts and Captain Kirk coffee mugs to plant holders and his and her Star Trek robes, our couple are a mixture of hipster foodies with a strong Trekkie pedigree.
Where once there was an innocent little wedding picture on the book shelf in front of a plain wall the night before now appears an ominous semi hidden door which catches Kris off guard. The anxiety becomes palpable as divisiveness cuts between them. Where did it come from? How did it get there? What do Kris and Jake do now? All critical dilemmas that now confront our couple. Kris who is adamant on entering this mystery gateway wins the argument and the portal to the black abyss is opened. The decision to use cavernous sound effects during the door / portal sequence gives STRANGE THING a sense and feel of added depth with other-worldly dimensions.
The beautifully shot morphing sequences of George Schminky black crude creature creation were reminiscent of the storied liquid metal alloy transformation which formed the T-1000 in bigger budget Hollywood fare like 1991’s Terminator: Judgement Day. Fear and isolation together with a strong sense of composition kept STRANGE THING humming along right through the final act.
Verdict: 4.0 / 5: Even the simplest movie premise can go astray, but Director Alrik Bursell’s slow burn off the top serves as so much necessary kindling for the second half of the movie to catch fire. Faced with an untenable situation actor Hali Lula Hudson delivered serious acting chops in this complex role. This little taste of what Bursell can deliver wets ones appetite to see so much more from him. STRANGE THING is a convincing little Sci-fi so worthy of inclusion in the Toronto After Dark Film Festival’s International Short Film Showcase, could the ABCs of Death 3 be far behind?
Some doors were not meant be opened.
Genre: Science Fiction, Short, Horror
Country: USA
Language: English
Year: 2014
Director: Alrik Bursell
Writers: Alrik Bursell
Story: Alrik Bursell, Beth Bursell
Producer: Alrik Bursell
Co-Producer: Isaac Pingree
Director of Photography: Jason Joseffer
Special Effects/Creature Creation: George Schminky –
Production: Bursell Productions
Website: http://www.strangethingmovie.com/
Premiere: International short Film Showcase
Runtime: 10 Minutes
Cast: Hali Lula Hudson, David O’Donnell
