Writer/director Veronica Felicity Johnson‘s short A Certain Method is a zany and zombie-fueled commentary on art and determination. It’s an entertaining 14 minutes with a lead character, played by Brittany Belt, that I’d love to see star in more horror films, especially as a final girl.

Belt plays actress Tate Fama, who desperately wants to land a part in a movie and reignite her fledgling career. She has to deal with several challenges, including a smug casting director, played by Bryan Coffee, best known for This Is Us and iCarly. Not only that, but for whatever reason, she goes toe to toe with a director who’s a zombie. The make-up bestowed upon actor Kamy D. Bruder looks really, really good. Other than Belt’s performance, it’s one of the short’s highlights.

Despite how off-the-wall the short becomes, there is a not-so-subtle message about determination in the face of aversity and sticking to your guns to land a role you want or making the art that you want to make. It’s a message that’s likely to resonant with viewers, especially aspiring filmmakers, actors, and other creatives.

At this point, Johnson has already created a few shorts, and I’d love to see her take on a feature-length film. A Certain Method is just the right blend of comedy and horror, and she nails the beats rather seamlessly. Additionally, Belt really excels in the lead role. She absolutely deserves to be in more horror projects, and the way she battles that zombie director indicates that she’d make one heck of a final girl.

A Certain Method serves up a bloody and thoughtful commentary on art and creation. The short proves that both Johnson and lead actress Belt are talents to watch.