In an age where digital media has essentially replaced all physical versions of entertainment, it’s difficult to remember a time where we couldn’t simply download our current favorite song in a matter of seconds to our various devices. Not too long ago, though, radio was king, and if we wanted to hear a current hit, we’d have to sit patiently and wait for our local DJ to play it.

Darby After Dark , a short film written and directed by Anna Hammill, takes us back to those all but forgotten days of radio, and adds in a slice of horror as we explore one terrifying night for the host of a late night show.

Darby (Megan Farley) is working the solo night shift at a radio station, spinning records and taking calls from listeners who are regaling her with stories of their personal paranormal experiences. 

When the alluring Margaret (Claire Driver) calls in stating she doesn’t necessarily have a story to tell, but more of a game to play, Darby is at first intrigued. Taking Margaret’s bait, Darby agrees to give the game a try, with all of the stations’ patrons listening on. 

Darby After Dark plays out with quiet tension, keeping the pace going and holding the audience’s attention, even with it being just under ten minutes of runtime. 

Farley plays out the range of emotions Darby goes through in this short amount of time well, adding in the relatability factor of someone who just wants to do her job and not deal with any complications. 

For a short film, this is a surprisingly well told story, with a clearly thought out plot that harkens back to the days of spooky stories told in front of the fire.