Short film analysis

'The Maestro'


I chose 'The Maestro' as one short horror film to focus on as my own short film will be the sub-genre of supernatural horror; through analysing this film I will be able to incorporate common conventions into my own film, thus making it the best it can be in terms of following the genre.
This short supernatural horror film is effective within the opening sequence in defining its genre; the film begins with a wide shot which establishes the setting. The film is set in a domestic home, which provides a sense of realism for the audience.The blue toned lighting usually connotes a calm setting, although in this case presents a cold and distant room. This is effective in portraying to the audience that the setting is not comfortable or desirable thus evoking a sense of mystery and tension. Furthermore, through the mise-en-scene and placement of the clock, the audience are aware the film is a horror, and most likely the sub-genre of supernatural, as the time is 3 am, known as the devils hour. This is a time referred to as 'Devil's hour' as it is a time known for supernatural happenings to begin occurring. As it is also night time this creates a tone of fear for the audience as it evokes a sense of uncertainty and the fear of the unknown in the dark. The scene is also very minimalist, therefore the audience are not distracted from the main plot and the signifier of the clock, ghost and tape recorder conveys the genre clearly enough. Furthermore, along with the use ambient non-diegetic music, the filmmaker creates a sense of predictability as the audience have a sense that something is going to happen. The wide shot makes the film simple as it establishes everything clearly and provides the plot to unfold within one shot, which is effective in a short film.
Both the characters and narrative are introduced by the voice recording that begins playing on its own within the first twenty seconds of the film. Therefore, we as the audience are introduced instantly to the supernatural element of the film, as well as introducing all characters through the dialogue.
The film has a surreal narrative; the use of smoke connotes a dream-like setting and plot. The theme of the supernatural also connotes a surreal narrative.
'The Maestro' has an open-ended ending which is effective as there is no explanation or conclusion, therefore there is the sense of the unknown and gives no cause for the audience to debunk the supernatural element thus making the fear factor more potent.