Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival – If you’re looking for at least one reason to watch the short Stalked, just consider the fact it has a killer scarecrow. Yes, a killer scarecrow. Move over Chucky, Jason, Freddy, and Michael, there’s a new killer in town. It’s nice to see a slasher who’s not part of a prequel, requel, reboot, or proper sequel.

Directed by Wesley Mellott, the film follows a group of paranormal investigators/YouTubers played by Buddy Caine, Lauren LaVera, and Kathryn Miller. They set up shop at the infamous “Slaughter Hill,” where a town apparently disappeared.  Mellott has a talent for using setting and location effectively. Shot in Montgomery County, PA, a suburb of Philly with plenty of sprawling farmland, the location’s endless rows of cornstalks feel like they could swallow the trio. Meanwhile, a killer scarecrow (Andrew Glessner) watches the group, waiting to pick them off one by one. Everything about this short screams Halloween time, especially the cornstalks, Caine’s pumpkin t-shirt, and the very concept. It’ll make you want to order a pumpkin spice latte and inhale fresh autumn air.

Mellott’s camerawork remains impressive throughout the 20-minute runtime. His ariel shots and close-ups of the natural land really amp up the location, making it quite a presence. The writing team also spent just enough time establishing the urban legend of the farm, so it feels layered, with a creepy backstory and eerie history. The short’s special effects look good, too, especially the scarecrow and its bloody face. There’s not a ton of guts and gore for a slasher, but the eventual kills aren’t PG, either.

Mellott plans to turn Stalked into a feature. I’m all for it. I’d love a new horror villain that’s not already part of an established franchise. There’s a lot of talent here and real potential to push this story further. Stalked wears its slasher influences proudly, and the short is pure fun, a perfect watch for the spooky season.

7.5 Out of 10