Monsters By Liz Cvalda
Liz Cvalda’s “Monsters” is a captivating short film that intricately explores the unique connection between two strangers who share a common bond of being victims of loss, isolation, and domestic violence. Despite the limitations of having a single location and only two characters, Cathy Wippell as Felicia and Beth Gatherer as “Katherine” deliver powerful performances that captivate the audience.
The film’s greatest strength lies in its well-written dialogue, which is layered with triggers and subtext. The characters’ stories unfold in a Hitchcock-style opening sequence accompanied by Church organ music, instantly establishing a tone of suspense and intrigue. This homage to classic cinema enhances the overall mood of the film. The 4 by 3 aspect ratio adds dynamism to the storytelling and contributes to the atmospheric quality of the piece.
The predominantly classical musical score is a mixed blessing. While it effectively transports viewers to the late 70s, creating an immersive experience, there are instances where it becomes overused. Moments of silence could have heightened the tension and allowed the audience to feel the characters’ emotions without relying solely on music. Despite this, the combination of tense, sinister, and magical elements in the soundtrack complements the narrative and enhances the overall viewing experience.
Visually, “Monsters” takes bold risks with its contrasted and low-key color palette. The interplay between warm orange tones and cool greens from the windows presents a striking contrast to the emotionally cold content. This deliberate visual choice adds depth to the storytelling, reinforcing the film’s thematic elements.
The use of black and white flashbacks further adds to the film’s retro style. This stylistic decision serves both as a narrative device and enhances the overall aesthetic by creating a clear visual distinction between the present and the past. The black and white imagery evokes nostalgia and reinforces the timeless struggles of the characters.
Though the film excels at creating a captivating atmosphere, finding a balance between the visual and auditory components would elevate the film to even greater heights, offering a more immersive and nuanced experience.
In conclusion, “Monsters” is a commendable short film that skillfully navigates the challenges of a confined setting and limited characters. The strong performances, well-crafted script, and Hitchcockian influences contribute to a memorable viewing experience, the film succeeds in delivering a poignant exploration of human connection in the face of adversity.
K.Araman
Monthly Indie Shorts
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About Liz
Liz Cvalda is a Filmmaker and Composer who is based in the East Midlands. An enthusiast for Cinema and an admirer of the Arts, Liz has a strong passion for telling stories and bringing them to the screen in a way which breaks free of the normal conventions, and challenges the audience.
Some of Liz’s influences include the likes of David Lynch, Francis Ford Coppola, Andrei Tarkovsky, Salvador Dali and Lars Von Trier.
