AFRAID | Short Film (AWARD-WINNING)
WINNER OF BEST FILM AT THE 2020 UNDER FIVE MINUTE FILM FESTIVAL.
_______________
A coffee shop manager closes up for the night and heads to her car in a nearby parking garage. Will she make it? Or will her worst fears become reality?
CAST
Lead Actress | Ashley Mellinger
Hooded Figure | Seth Bortner
Group of Guys | Ben Enck, Lee Atkins, Andrew Porter, Zach Miller
CREW
Directors | Lisbet Byler & Grace Wagner
Writers | Lisbet Byler & Grace Wagner
Producers | Lisbet Byler & Grace Wagner
Executive Producer | Derek Dienner
Director of Photography | Steve Buckwalter
Assistant Camera | Sebastian Nieves
Boom Operator | Ben Bodnar
Editor & Sound Designer | Aaron Dienner
Assistant Editor | Jordan Graff
VFX | Allen Clements
Make-up Artist | Kayla Fetterolf
Production Assistant | Jacque Byler
Behind the Scenes Photographer | Sam Interrante
Accountant | Ashley Dienner
Learn more: makefilms.cc/originalfilms/afraid
The details are very nice and accurate. Her Headphones aren’t plugged in because she wants people to think she listens to music but she also wants to hear every little sound in case someone is following her. As a teen girl this is definitely something I have done while walking the street at night.
As a teen girl….. why are you walking the streets at night.
never wear headphones in public. It will make people think you are distracted and a more vulnerable target.
@Andre Fernandes like when someone looks busy u wont talk to them.
@Andre Fernandes but most harrassers will not go for you if you look busy
Hopefully you live in an area where you're allowed to carry a gun, but if not carry a machete or something so that you can defend yourself
It’s seems like every horror short on KZhead has ‘won an award’ lmao either the bar is shockingly low or it’s cap
RIGHT? Especially when these films don't hold any thought-provoking theme or message. And, at least in the horror genre, they all use this same visual effect of "antagonist glitches toward me ahhh spooky ghost." Just feels like these films are randomly generated by AI.
@@stars227 Thanks for the recommendation! Just watched it and thought it was many times better. It's simple, but creative. Thanks again. 👍
It's been quite some time since I've made a short film and what a way to start the new year with this new creation 'Pumpkin' - I shot it in a day and in one take! I dig it, it's a lot of fun, and I sure wish that you all enjoy and Share! Much Love and Kindness. Let me know what you all think! kzhead.info/sun/dt6dgrWMr4Nrd6s/bejne.html
@@LowWiseZahStudios no
@@LowWiseZahStudios stop it with the self promotion jeez
As soon as you see the car you know how it is going to end.
True
Foreshadowing or premonition cannot work without this ending... it took zero creativity to come up with it
It was obvious. Why would she feel safe in the car while being chased by a person, who can easily teleport.
Congrats on your purchase of the scary sound effects package.
Well shot and edited and achieved a continuous escalating atmophere of fear and menace. The ending was a formulaic often visited trope and a bit disapppointing. I think it would have been more powerful if she'd just started the car and driven off without incident giving a kind of metaphor for how a lot of women live in a world of fear, vigilance and a constant need to be alert for self preservation.
Dawg nothing of what you just said was true, this shit was ass.
Agree- I think if she had just left it would have pointed out that the fear is forever there, regardless of what happens
Also, that the fear is just as real and tangible as the danger
Maybe the ending was meant to convey that you may not be safe where you think you are. Be aware of your surroundings, especially those that you consider safe. Betrayal is done by those you trust.
good point
What is the most effective jump scare? The one that doesn't happen.
wrong, the most effective jumpscare happens when you dont expect to happen
@@cine.delmundo 🤦🏽
haha literally
@@WASTHATABULLET He's right, tho.
@@--_-.. you must not know the define lines of fear. So are jump scares the only type of scares you know? lol . There is a game called Amnesia that would like to know where you have been. Sometimes is the buildup that makes it scary. Nothing more difficult than pushing past a fear or challenge despite the fear. It is psychological in every way worse than just a cheap jump scare when you don't expect it. That type of scare lasts like 3 seconds. So am I suppose to say wrong? No because that is what scares that person the most. I guess common sense isn't common because the facepalm was for the wrong part not that what scares him. Gotta have common sense others did.
The sound encapsulates not only the viewer but the girl who is afraid. With no dialogue, the sound and atmosphere of her reality is our source to our ears and it really engages the viewer instead of dialogue.
ALWAYS check the back seat
*copied from a comment I replied to what I understand is that initially, she was paranoid. Like when she passed by the group of guys she avoided eye contact and starred at the ground instead. If your a woman then you know that its pretty scary being alone outside at night and having to walk past a group of guys. She bumps into one of them, drops her keys and when she picks it up she allegedly sees a suspicious person in a hoodie and you can tell she's visibly frightened. She fumbles with the self-defense materials on her keys for a second and when she looks back the 'person' is gone. This happens a couple of times as she finally makes it back to her car. She's being paranoid and afraid of all the possibilities of being alone as woman out at night. And when she gets in the car, she thinks she's safe but there actually is some bad person waiting for her in the car.Basically, I think that the creators of the film were trying to shed light on how society always says woman are overreacting and being paranoid over their own safety. But when we finally let our guard down, is when our fears come to light. She wasnt actually being chased or hunted, it was all in her head in the first place but it turned into reality. if your a woman who lives in dangerous areas then you'll understand these kind of situations and feelings better. I understand why this film won an award. It's a bit cliche but it is the reality we live in as a society.
This is how it feels living in Brazil
I think the whole world feels scary now, maybe too many people? So much evil everywhere.
Then why would u live their?lol
@@wh0o_rickflair844 That's like telling a black American why are they staying in the States, smh
It's better than Iran
Lol no way
Always a trip that whenever one presses *DOOR CLOSE* in an elevator, the doors seem to remain open for _extra_ time. It's almost as if the elevator has a soul, and an attitude that it does not like to be rushed. 😅 It sucks; I literally think about this every time I press those buttons.
This is award winning? come on man I expected more
absolutely ominous. Love what you did with this.
It's a very well done film. It makes us start imagining jump scares as the character is. You feel the fear that she's not feeling.
Zip it up when you're done
Amazing short film the acting and cinematography was awesome also love ur use of sound design to create unnerving tension keep up the amazing work 🎥📽🤟🏻
Ok, I'm not saying this is a bad short, but I'm very curious as to how many of these shorts get awarded. This is a very watchable short, but it is definitely not worthy of an award.
definitly agree
Award winning..?
Right?
4 maddd spookiness
@@fgpd7710 😂😂😂
I wanted to write the same
It's nothing special tbh
Interestingly made film. Especially loved that opening shot! Though it would have been more interesting to have had a more unique/interesting ending!
yeah
Bot
i liked the opening shot a lot as well!
You say interesting a lot…interesting 🤔
Hey please watch my horror short im curious of your thoughts:)
This is how I feel whenever I go walking at night
I am just getting interested in editing video and fell into a KZhead rabbit hole and found short films. This was my first one and it was AWESOME!
only thing I couldn’t believe is possible is the girl wearing the ear phones at night alone. That’s a red flag, I feel like no one will do that.
I always do that, but turn on music, less chance of people talking to you and if they do you can just pretend you didn’t hear
I do this all the time.
Not in unsafe countries. Ppl in low crime countries doesnt have this "instinct".
Ok chris
I do that all the time. But I also walk my two bigs dogs. They're my bodyguards :)
I was impressed by your use of shots, characters, and sounds to convey fear in the short amount of time...
So good! I love the lighting and use of telephoto lens.
This was awesome! Love the attention to small details and the kinetic camera movements. 👏👏👏👏
Great production, well done 👍
What I interpreted from this film was naturally we tend to be more vigilant when were outside the confines of our "safe place", weather that be where you reside, your home, your car, your box, where ever. The secure feeling of "as long as im in here im safe from the danger out there". but sometimes that security we think we feel can be complacent. sometimes a persons home poses more of a threat and danger to them than being outside. Sadly the truth is we at times have a false sense of security and that false sense can be more dangerous than any other threat in or outside of our safe place
Very well described Thanks!
That's how anxiety feels like man
Good work guys, I liked it. Acting could be better but the production and scenes are really well made!
I love this. the scene where she leaves the elevator and the soundtrack takes over is really cool
Great pace, music, acting, editing. High quality-thanks! That said, yikes, the ending of the film is frequently seen in various spy/thriller movies so just not unique or singular. Really wish the director/script writer would have thought through a more original ending.
The sounds in the film 👌 well done
Really nice cinematography. Nice work!
"It gives me the shivers down my spine"
Always check the back seat! Especially if you're in the horror movie!
Love the various shots, pace, music, acting, and editing.. great job
"Just because you're paranoid don't mean they are not after you" NIRVANA - Nevermind, track 7, "Territorial Pissings", DGC Records, 1991. This is what many women have to face on a regular basis. Some people - men, most of time - may say that that it is "bs", "waste of time", "exaggeration" (...)when a film either portrays that or the story could be interpreted this way. But statistics present another reality. It was an interesting film but I I'm cannot share it openly because I know quite a few people that would freak out with such content. One more sub!
Fr
It's contrived. The content isn't what's upsetting about it, it's the simplicity and laziness of the storytelling.
Originally a Joseph Heller (or Buck Henry) quote.
@@collectiveimpact2317 ”not that deep” just get up and leave male.
It was pretty cool to use no words and still gave me the feeling like i was there with the details the used
I didn’t even realize it was a horror film til a clicked the video lol. Man it really scared me though as an adult. This is nicely done too. As someone that really sees some crazy shit that isn’t there and I freak myself out. Lol. Great horror film though. Especially that’s made in 3 in a half minutes that’s crazy.
Much more of a comedy than a horror lol
how is it funny?! Its about how women are constantly afraid to be by themselves because of all the risks... and you think that's funny?
Yeah, good job of setting the tone well right away with the use of city sounds, the quickening and intensifying of the music, and the proximity of the group of guys to her that closes in fast. Nice work for 3 & 1/2 minutes, but you had to know that either the guy was in the back of the car (cuz it wasn't just gonna end with her driving off), or he was going to jump scare her once last time at the window, which would be why we see so much of the window and how it's lit.
Saw that coming. YAWN
Well done, sounds was on point, inserts, coloring, sounds, great job!
They stole my 3.30 minute from my life.
Yes thank you this was the stupidest thing I've ever seen. It had no story. It was pointless.
Weak af!
)
Thank you so much !!!!
You're welcome
lol
@@coolranch-ez4tu Thank you.
Guys what’s the song in the end? Shazam is helpless!
@@Wolf_runner12 I Shazamed it for you, it's Boom boom boom -Grace Mesa
Hi I just wanted to know if you're just a beginner, how do you pay the entire crew?
Awesome short horror film 🧟♂️🧟♀️. Great music and great actor❤
plz make a hour length movie just like this.. movies these days lack the thrill like this
I can't believe it took 2 (TWO) people to write and direct this
What gear was used? what camera? Awesome work
in which camera was it shot?? great work!
A nice short! Decent work!
nice. I can imagine where the dark would come from. still feel shocked
If scared always scared... Awesome work
Was this film shot at the "Downtown Mall" near UVA in Charlottesville, Virginia? It sure LOOKS like it probably was! :)
Nice one. Nice scenes. Ypu csn feel the drama that main character is going through. Story is something that has been seen before but it's ok. Main goal of drama is accomplished
So the moral of the short film is always, always check your car's backseat before you get in the car 🚗🏡 have a safe drive to home 💙💙💙💜💜💜
@Aqua Fyre it's easy to break in ig
She leaves her car open. She didn't even close her shop properly. She walks with keys in their hand. I'm AFRAID she _must_ expect something bad to happen 😅
when she took out her phone her headphones weren't plugged in lol
Maybe its intentional
Anyone knows about ending music? I can’t find any information about this song.
Welp looks like i aint gonna be out late at night alone for a while now :)
I have the same feeling when I go out alone in the evenings.. It's better not to be outside at those times.
Super.... all we need is more films like this to create - or rather, increase our culture of fear and horror. If people want horror and fear, why not go to countries where there is war?
Performance is hyperbolic!
war viel zu krass und unerwartet die handlung!
Adoro i corti "corti" fantastico ragazzi!
SONG: BOOM BOOM BOOM - Grace Mesa
You know what woulda made this waaaay better? Ditching the horror movie sound effects and glitch and jump cuts. Just hold the suspense longer. The ambient sound is plenty scary enough.
Someday I would love to star in a short film.
This was really good. Ashley Mellinger, did a really good job; of carrying the feel of the majority of the movie. Kudos 👍🏾
indeed
Are you on drugs?
@@plamenvelyov4605 yes
Mind-blowing ❤
What really took me out of the experience was the elevator button buzzing when she tried to close the door
good one but bro, as soon as she got into the car I think everyone knew what is gonna happen xD
Pretty girl in troubles. Old cinema trick , which has always a lot viewers. Much more, than any else themes.
ear phones not even connected lmaooo arab moment
Maybe because I watch too many horror movies but if I'm being chased by somebody, I'm pretty sure I'd check inside my car first to see if Michael Myers is there or not. If it's Freddy though, you're SOL. 🤣
The award must be from your mom
Enjoyed this!
Thank you so much...! very nice a Beautiful short Film !!!
EUA
Did you watch the same movie we all watched? If so you wouldn't say that.
What’s the soooooong? Even Shazam couldn’t find it! What should I do now? Hope for someone tell me the song at the end of this video. Pls the song name. The name??????
"Afraid" AFRAID, directed by Lisbet Byler and Grace Wagner, delves into the realm of women's anxieties through a unique lens. This analysis will dissect key elements, such as cinematography, sound design, narrative structure, and symbolism, to unveil the film's nuanced exploration of psychological fears. Through a concise yet impactful storytelling approach, the directors artfully navigate the delicate balance between suspense and societal introspection. The film's cinematography skillfully employs visual techniques to heighten the intensity of Anna's anxieties. Notably, low-angle shots during Anna's walk to her car create a sense of vulnerability, reinforcing the looming threat she perceives. Lighting choices within the parking garage contribute to the ominous atmosphere, utilizing shadows and contrasts to amplify the tension. These visual decisions effectively immerse the audience in the psychological landscape of the film. The sound design in "AFRAID" serves as a critical component in enhancing emotional engagement. Subtle elements, such as echoing footsteps and distant sounds in the parking garage, contribute to the eerie atmosphere, intensifying Anna's sense of isolation. The deliberate absence of a traditional musical score adds a raw and realistic layer to the film, allowing the audience to experience Anna's fears without the comfort of a reassuring soundtrack. AFRAID's narrative structure artfully weaves together psychological fears and real-life anxieties. By personifying Anna's anxieties as a hooded figure, the film externalizes internal struggles, making them tangible for the audience. The open-ended conclusion, leaving viewers questioning the reality of someone in Anna's car, encourages reflection on the broader impact of societal fears on individual perceptions. Symbolism plays a pivotal role in "AFRAID", with the hooded figure acting as a powerful metaphor. It represents the intangible fears and anxieties women face daily, providing a tangible form to abstract emotions. The ambiguity surrounding the hooded figure's existence symbolizes the uncertainty of the threats women perceive, prompting contemplation on the blurred lines between genuine danger and the psychological toll of societal expectations. In conclusion, "AFRAID" successfully navigates the complexities of psychological fears and societal anxieties through a carefully crafted combination of cinematography, sound design, narrative choices, and symbolism. The film's impact lies in its ability to evoke intrigue and fear, prompting viewers to reflect on the intricate interplay between personal and societal fears. While the open-ended conclusion may be interpreted as either a strength or a potential shortcoming, the overall success of the film rests in its thought-provoking exploration of the universal theme of anxiety.
What is the meaning of this film? Very low
i don't like how academic this looks, sounds, fells and screams.
Good film i like it, the suspense was killing me
Oh! A tense movie!
ok the video was nice , smooth and almost flawless. but! idk if everyone realize it but the headset wasnt even plug in. anybody saw that???
Nicely shot.🌙
Are there really any women who don’t look in the back seat of their car, in the dark, while alone? And take those ear buds out of your ears, if you want to live. Situational awareness. In London’s Underground, signs everywhere reminding you to remove your earbuds for safety. Still, you see young girls with earbuds singing along, completely oblivious. They never see me until it’s too late! Mwahahahaha, - Signed, “Jack,” East End, Spittlefield, London
Why do London undergrounds have those kind of signs?
why the song not credited ?
Bro last song name ??
Wow - Awesome!
Well done 👍
Please somebody name the song in the end!!
Nice film. Though, I didn't understand the backstory about the guy. Was he a ghost or just in the main character's head? Also, why he was chasing her? I'd put some flashbacks where It explains that somehow she accidentally killed her friend or boyfriend in the past and the guilt is following here till the end. Something like that.
Was this the only competition entry to make this the winner?
Looks at the phone, time says: "9:11" ; nice touch.
LOL! Why did she leave to unlock her car door? Unlocked car door invites a criminal to trap her!
award winning acting!!! keep up the work!!! 100!
WoW! Awesome!
what award it won? anyone can puit it on the title now so many awards
this was great
I kinda liked it, the ending was really cliche though, and the jumpscares werent that scary ngl.