Remains, 2023: A Chilling and Emotional Horror Short by Dylan Clark

• Country: United States
• Initial release: October 23, 2023 (United States)
• Film Director: Dylan Clark
• Running Time: 11 Minutes
• IMDB Grade: 7.6

In the realm of YouTube horror shorts, Dylan Clark has emerged as a prominent filmmaker. His religious horror short, “Portrait of God” (2022), garnered millions of views and catapulted him into the forefront of YouTube horror enthusiasts. Following his success, Clark released his thesis project, “Remains” (2023), a chilling and emotional horror short that explores the depths of grief and the supernatural.

The Filmmaker: Dylan Clark

Dylan Clark, born in 2001, is an up-and-coming filmmaker who has captured the attention of horror enthusiasts on YouTube. Having graduated from Ithaca College, Clark’s talent and passion for writing and directing shine through in his work. His portfolio includes notable horror shorts such as “Portrait of God” (2022), “Rest” (2021), and “Transfigure” (2021). Clark’s ability to delve into the horror genre and create captivating narratives has earned him recognition and awards at national film festivals.

The Storyline of “Remains”

“Remains” follows the story of a grieving mother who brings home the ashes of her infant son. As she copes with her devastating loss, she begins to believe that there is something alive inside the urn containing her son’s remains. In this solid 11:11 runtime, the audience is taken on an emotional rollercoaster as the woman confronts a sinister presence that preys on her vulnerability and grief.

A Crowdfunded Venture

Unlike Clark’s previous self-funded project, “Portrait of God” (2022), “Remains” was crowdfunded through GoFundMe. The campaign successfully raised USD 2,114, providing Clark with the freedom to experiment with his horror filmmaking techniques. With the support of producers Jacquelyn Chin and Juliana Luis, as well as cinematographer Taylor Teusch, Clark had the resources to bring his vision to life.

The Impact of “Remains”

“Remains” made its rounds at the Atlanta Horror Film Festival and garnered attention by being nominated for the Chicago Horror Film Festival. The success of the short further solidified Clark’s position in the industry and showcased his ability to captivate audiences with his unique storytelling and visual style.

A Small Set with a Powerful Impact

Similar to his previous work, Clark effectively utilizes a small set in “Remains.” The story primarily takes place in the woman’s home, where the audience is only exposed to three rooms. This minimalist approach allows the audience to focus on the emotional intensity of the narrative and creates a sense of claustrophobia, intensifying the horror elements.

A Masterful Use of Time and Suspense

One of the most impressive aspects of “Remains” is Clark’s mastery of time within the jumpscares. He strategically uses timing to build suspense and shock the audience. Each jumpscare is carefully crafted to distract, lure, and ultimately terrify viewers. Clark’s ability to manipulate time and deliver impactful scares is akin to an artist skillfully using their brush.

Visual Style and Cinematography

Clark’s visual style in “Remains” is consistent and visually stunning. The cinematography, led by Taylor Teusch, effectively captures the emotions and atmosphere of the story. The use of lighting, shadows, and camera angles adds depth and intensity to each scene, further immersing the audience in the horror of the narrative.

A Deeper Exploration of Grief

While “Portrait of God” (2022) touched on delicate religious subject matter, “Remains” delves into the profound experience of grief. Through the journey of the grieving mother, the audience is confronted with the raw emotions and trauma associated with loss. Clark takes a stronger stance in exploring the depths of grief, provoking introspection and empathy within the viewers.

The Message Within the Horror

Clark’s storytelling pattern is evident in “Remains.” He first captivates the audience with scares, drawing them into the narrative. However, beneath the horror lies a deeper message. In “Remains,” the audience is encouraged to contemplate the enduring power of grief and the lengths one may go to hold on to a lost loved one. The film serves as a reminder of the complexities of coping with loss and the darkness that can consume those in mourning.

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