Curry Barker is a name that's been making waves in the horror genre, and for good reason. With a YouTube channel named 'that's a bad idea' and a collaborator Cooper Tomlinson, Barker has crafted a series of short films that are both chilling and captivating. These films, available for free online, showcase Barker's talent and provide a glimpse into his unique style and storytelling. Let's dive into five of these shorts, each offering a different perspective on the horror genre.
Milk & Serial (2024)
This 60-minute found-footage horror is a smart and twisty affair, blending the YouTube prank video format with sinister elements. The film follows two roommates, Milk and Seven, who host a prank channel together. As they attempt to outdo each other, the line between practical joke and something more sinister blurs. This short is a testament to Barker's ability to create tension and intrigue, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats. Personally, I think this film is a strong indicator of what Barker could achieve with a feature-length film, and it's definitely worth a watch for fans of the genre.
The Chair (2023)
This 25-minute short is more akin to Barker's 'Obsession,' depicting a relationship torn asunder by supernatural meddling. The film follows Reese, who brings home an old wooden chair, only to find that a week of his life has disappeared from his memory. The chair, it seems, is cursed, and Reese's nightmare has only just begun. This short is a creepy and atmospheric affair, packing a lot into its brief runtime. The performance of Anthony Pavone as Reese is particularly noteworthy, and the film has shades of Obsession's Nikki. In my opinion, this short is a must-watch for fans of Barker's work, offering a glimpse into his ability to create suspense and intrigue.
Warnings (2023)
This 20-minute chiller has a great hook: a note on Sean's car reads 'I'm begging you to stop.' As Sean finds more notes appearing elsewhere, his grip on reality unravels. The film boasts some particularly eerie dream sequences and is filled with suspense. The performance of Barker as Sean is particularly noteworthy, and the film is filled with a sense of unease. What many people don't realize is that this short is a testament to Barker's ability to create a sense of dread and suspense in a short runtime.
Enigma (2023)
This psychological thriller is a bittersweet character drama, following Adam as he stews away in his apartment while the days tick down to the end of the world. The film is filled with a sense of melancholia and uncertainty, as Adam grapples with the end of the world and the embers of a lost relationship. The result is a film that is on a different tonal register to Barker's other shorts, with a heartfelt core. From my perspective, this film is a testament to Barker's ability to create a sense of empathy and emotion in a short runtime.
Heavy Eyes (2022)
This five-minute short takes one of Barker's signature moves - the uncanny dream sequence - and lets it play out across the runtime. The film follows Seth, who is applying for jobs at home while his mum works late at the hospital. As odd noises in the house suggest he's not alone, the film takes a turn towards pure horror tropes. While maintaining a strong psychological bent, this short is a testament to Barker's ability to create tension and suspense in a short runtime. One thing that immediately stands out is the film's ability to create a sense of unease and dread in a short space of time.
In conclusion, Curry Barker's short films are a must-watch for fans of the horror genre. Each film offers a unique perspective on the genre, showcasing Barker's talent and ability to create suspense, intrigue, and empathy. From found-footage horror to psychological thrillers, these shorts are a testament to Barker's versatility and creativity. If you're looking for a chilling and captivating experience, these films are definitely worth a watch.
