“Pointless” is the first word that came to mind while I was watching this, and it was quickly followed by “confusing”.  Perhaps it’s because I actually graduated High School in 1988, that I find most of the 80s references just a bit “off”, but let me assure you that nothing about this apocalyptic period piece feels quite right.  From the fact that the prominently featured Nintendo Power Glove wasn’t released until December of 89 to the lack of “big hair” things never gelled to create an actual 80s or early 90s feel.  In fact, it seems more like Mr. Ryan found a lot of stuff in an attic or at a local thrift store and decided to make this a period piece for no apparent reason, with only hearsay knowledge of the actual time period, and hoped nobody would notice.

As for the “short film” itself.  This appears to be little more than a series of clips (possibly shot on smartphones) and stock footage that was competently edited together into a semi-cohesive; though ultimately pointless and confusing, story with an 80’s(ish) synthesized public domain soundtrack slapped over the top.  The editing and visual effects were probably the best part of this project, and I certainly got a good giggle from the blood FX.  I honestly would have loved to see the expression on everyone involved’s faces when they realized the cheap “Halloween store” blood they were using by the gallon, was going to leave their skin stained red for the next few days.

If I had to guess I’d say this was a High School film project and if that’s the case I’d certainly like to see what Mr. Ryan produces in about 5 years.  This was obviously a labor of love and everyone involved seems to have been having a great time and they all, no doubt, made memories that they will cherish and look back fondly on for life.  BUT, this is not a film I would expect anyone who wasn’t involved in or related to someone who was involved in, to be able to fully appreciate.

Mr. Ryan should be commended for actually producing a finished product with what appears to be no budget, untrained actors and a volunteer film crew (no small feat, I assure you). This is an accomplishment of which he, and everyone involved, should be proud.  However, if this short was produced by anyone other than a film student and there was a budget of more than a few hundred dollars then there really isn’t any excuse for the quality of this film.