Steven Vera’s ‘Nuisance’, co-written with Art Galvan, is a captivating blend of fantasy and comedy that brings a fresh perspective to ghost stories. Sofia Portillo stars as Nuisance, a young female phantom desperate to find courage. Her journey from the other side is both endearing and humorous as she navigates encounters with the living.
Nuisance’s first encounter is with the lonely Mr. Higgins (Darin Craddolph) set’s up the tale nicely. Portillo shines as the ghost with a heart, bringing depth to a character that could easily have been one-dimensional.
The film takes an intriguing turn when Nuisance meets filmmakers Adam (Art Galvan) and Sam (Michael Pointer). Their contrasting reactions to her presence – one of fright and the other of empathy – add layers to the narrative. Galvan and Pointer’s performances are commendable, capturing the essence of two individuals thrown into an unexpected supernatural situation.
Vera’s writing is robust, with a script that balances comedy and sentiment. The dialogue is sharp and witty, reflecting the film’s charming message about courage and understanding. While the production value is reasonable, there’s room for slight enhancements to elevate the film’s technical aspects.
To wrap things up, ‘Nuisance’ is an entertaining piece that stands out for its originality and heartfelt storytelling and characterisations. The film’s respectable performances, occasional comedy, and strong writing make it a delightful watch. Steven Vera has crafted a short film that is both amusing and thought-provoking, making ‘Nuisance’ a must-see for fans of fantasy and light-hearted ghost tales.
