Thomas A. Fowler / United States / 20 minutes
Synopsis
Doctor Jamie Hyman leads an uncommon group therapy: she helps five notorious mass murderers stop slashing and start healing.
OK, this one is hilarious. Fowler’s excellent writing hits its marks during 20 minutes for two reasons: accurate and at the same time nutty dialogues, plus a pertinent irruption of codes of the genre (i.e. 1980’s slasher films). The general humour does work even after several viewings.
The alternately funny & moving scenario shines a light on the shrink’s nice character (Meg M Ralph) facing her five patients-killers, who also act very well (Jeff Steele is superb). Even the ones that are less “visible” (masks, distorted voice) show dazzling personalities. Interactions come one after another without becoming less interesting, and each character will have evolved their own way at the end of the film. By the way, the last scene’s tone is unexpected, which makes another excellent point.
In terms of form, strangely it is rather conventional. Score and compositions remain steady and humble, where the directing could’ve tried something crazier or more personal, following the example of its script. However let’s highlight the image’s elegance (quality lightings and colour-grading).
Finally, good news for an audience potentially interested but impressionable: no gore or shocking outbursts here, so the flick can be watched and enjoyed regardless of your tolerance threshold on this matter.
Conclusion
An unmissable horror comedy!
U.N.
« Slasher Sessions » joins official selection for the Little Croco Festival’s second edition, nominated in the Short Film category.
Trailer:
Thank you so much for the lovely review and selecting Slasher Sessions to the festival! - Thomas A. Fowler and the Slasher Sessions team