In a Flash

Imagine being wakened by a bright light, not like that of some sort of alien abduction, but rather as if someone was snapping your photo, with the flash on, in the pitch black of your own bedroom. . . well, that is the concept of the 2015 short film Polaroid.

Produced, directed, filmed and edited by Alex “Pressplay” Wohleber, it is a vignette of sheer terror. Waking from the bright light and distinct sound of a Polaroid picture being taken, our lead, simply known as Guy (Matt Halpern – also a producer), not only finds himself in a possible robbery situation, but also quickly learns that the electricity in his home isn’t working.

Also hearing a noise coming from the main floor, he grabs a flashlight from his bedside table and leaves his still sleeping wife to investigate the disturbance, not knowing what to expect. . . though, as horror fans, we definitely know that all is not well for our brave lead. What will he discover in the previously serene place that is his home? Will the couple be able to escape the possible threat?

A wonderfully constructed two minute thrill ride, the stark darkness, with only a flashlight providing any light, adds an oppressive, claustrophobic feeling as the Guy delves into this midnight mystery. With only ten different changes in camera angles, we are placed in close proximity to the protagonist, at one point zooming in, while at another following him up the stairs. . . his visage playing into the creepy conundrum. When combined with the excellent sound editing by Sam Nuttle and eerie score from Misha Mansoor (a suspenseful composition that feels like you’ve just had some unwanted critter scuttle up your leg – the heebie-jeebies are surely soon to follow), you have something special.

Mixing great suspense with a startling jump scare and a great closing payoff, Polaroid is well worth two minutes out of your busy schedule. It has always been said that a picture is worth a thousand words, and to transfer that quote over to this film’s case, it has all of the pieces that would make it worthy of being developed into a full length feature. So, check out this snapshot of horror to discover that things can change in a flash – in an instant, really.

Here is the link, make sure to give it a watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1bPOfzA7tE