The Painted is a short film that packs a big punch. A creative plot unfolds in front of an eerie yet inviting backdrop and makes for one spectacular story. This film is one big breath-hold, and there are enough elements worth exploring that give The Painted feature film potential.

In the 1960s, Clive, a wealthy spiritualist, contends with a dark force plaguing his family, when his wife suddenly and inexplicably falls into a coma. He searches for answers in an ancient book that details a long-forgotten ritual that purportedly summons portraits of the dead. Using the book as his guide, Clive attempts to invoke the entity that is oppressing his wife, with disastrous consequences.

The mise-en-scene is stunning. It is reminiscent of something out of Haunting of Hill House or American Horror Story. A beautiful old home with rich textures suggesting that this was once an elegant home full of life and happiness now plagued by darkness and despair. The props that make up the scene are all simple, but clean and serve a purpose. The eye goes where it needs to in every scene, and I was engaged from start to finish.

Clive (Mike Ossedryver) is a captivating lead. He goes from dismissive to desperate to focused to despondent to petrified to maniacal all in under 10 minutes! This cast is small but mighty and each had something unique and equally important to offer. So bravo to the cast and bravo to Sasha Sibley for giving the cast a story worth telling.

The Painted is peppered with stunning visuals in a storyline that is both creepy and concise. This makes The Painted a short film that can (and should) be enjoyed again and again! But be warned…it may make you question your desire to ever paint again.

9 out of 10