Jenn (Caitlin Carmichael) is a plucky tweener who has spent her entire life underground. The world above is filled with tyrannical monsters, ravaging the landscape. With her in the underground haven are her older brother (Joey Luthman) and her parents (Ione Skye, Christopher Wiehl) who are routinely out on scavenging missions, bringing supplies back home to keep the family alive. Jenn wiles the time underground away practicing her defense moves and envisioning the world outside based on what her family tells her.
Monsters from Steve Desmond on Vimeo.
It is rare that a short film creates a world so entirely, yet Monsters delivers. Steve Desmond and Michael Sherman script a delicately written yarn that paces itself so precisely, so judiciously, that it’s plot is at once unpredictable and compelling. That is not to mention Desmond’s deft direction which carefully crafts a tale that could be considered a distant cousin of The Twilight Zone.
There is also much to be said for the performances which are all uniformly strong. Beautifully shot and expertly paced, Monsters is a Serlingesque tale of paranoia delivered in a tightly wrapped, brown paper package. Paranoia, and sepia-toned delusions through the eyes of a terrified youngster with a devious punch.
Directed by Steve Desmond
Written by Steve Desmond & Michael Sherman
Produced by Michael Sherman, Aaron Billet, Ryan Lewis & Joe Russo
Executive Producers: JR Arinaga, Jason Michael Berman, Steve Desmond & Heather Parra
Cast: Caitlin Carmichael, Ione Skye, Christopher Wiehl & Joey Luthman
Oh and guess what. You can watch it right now.
