Short Film Review: “Hide Your Crazy” – A Classic Horror Film Style With Equal Parts of Humour and Gore.

“Hide Your Crazy” emerges as a delightful surprise in the realm of short horror films, brilliantly blending supernatural elements with romantic comedy while delving into the complexities of relationships and the fear of vulnerability. 

The story revolves around Iris, who harbours a supernatural secret that threatens to unravel her relationship with Dan, her boyfriend of six months. Iris‘s desperate attempts to conceal her secret reach a climax when Dan surprises her for her birthday, leading to a series of events that test the couple’s bond and resilience.

In the opening sequence of the film, we witness Iris hurrying home under the cover of night. The scene unfolds with an air of tension, suggesting that she is being pursued or in imminent danger driving her to seek refuge in the safety of her home. However, soon enough, the true urgency behind her haste becomes clear enough. Iris is racing against time to reach home a specific hour before she turns into a mysterious flesh-eating creature.

 Amy-Helene Carlson in Hide Your Crazy (2024)

Unbeknownst to Iris, her boyfriend Dan is waiting in her home to surprise her for her birthday. Caught off guard by Dan’s presence, Iris initially attempts to usher him out. However, Dan is undeterred and seeks to engage her in a conversation about their relationship, unaware of the supernatural thing he is about to witness.

As tensions escalate, Iris begins to exhibit unsettling signs of transformation, manifesting traits of this creature side of her she has been hiding.

The film, written and directed by Austin Kase, centres on the dynamic between these two characters, with Amy-Helene Carlson portraying Iris and William Lawrence Toussaint as Dan. Their performances lend depth and authenticity to the unfolding narrative, as they navigate the complexities of love, fear, and the unknown.

These two actors contribute significantly to the film’s success. They demonstrate a deep understanding not only of their respective roles but also of the genre they are participating in. Their performances strike a delicate balance, showcasing emotional depth while infusing the narrative with the light humour and wit essential for a film of this nature.

William Lawrence Toussaint in Hide Your Crazy (2024)

Their portrayals are both emotionally resonant and laced with the comedic timing necessary for the film’s tone. Their chemistry is palpable, elevating even the most mundane moments and adding depth to the character dynamics.

If this film ended up being feature-length and was solely focused on these two characters trapped inside the house, I do not doubt that they would still manage to captivate audiences and deliver a compelling story. Their performances anchor the film, ensuring that viewers remain engaged from start to finish.

As Iris‘s transformation intensifies, the film delves into themes of identity, intimacy, and the fear of being truly known. Kase‘s direction breathes fresh life into the classic horror genre, infusing the film with modern sensibilities and sharp dialogue that resonates with present-day relationship dynamics. The underlying theme of the fear of being truly seen adds layers of complexity to the narrative, as Iris grapples with the consequences of vulnerability and trust.

The film adopts a classic horror film style, characterized by a combination of quirky and intense music choices, as well as well-timed jump scares. It’s the kind of horror that balances gore with humour, creating an atmosphere that is both chilling and amusing. 

The film’s production values are top-notch, with striking visual effects by Sandbox VFX and expert makeup work by Santino Ferrese enhancing the immersive experience. It executes well the eerie creature transformations to heart-pounding jump scares. Every detail is meticulously crafted to deliver maximum impact without sacrificing narrative cohesion.

With its compelling story, exceptional performances, and impressive production values, it’s a testament to the talent and dedication of everyone involved. For its innovative approach to genre conventions and its ability to captivate audiences from start to finish, “Hide Your Crazy” earns a well-deserved 4 out of 5 stars. 

It’s a must-watch for horror enthusiasts and rom-com fans alike, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating future projects from its talented creators.