Gordon Hayes takes viewers on a chilling journey with his short film ‘The Rapping’, a paranormal tale that revolves around a man’s eerie encounter with a mysterious sound within his home. The film, written by JZ Murdock, stars Nikolas Hayes as the sole on-screen character, who becomes increasingly distracted while trying to decode the source of the haunting sounds.
Hayes showcases a commendable level of craftsmanship through his cinematography, effectively setting the mood and building suspense. However, the choice of visual effects raises some questions and weakens the overall intrigue of the film. Nevertheless, the film’s low-budget nature adds to its charm, and fans of horror B-movies will likely appreciate the experience.
One criticism of the short is its runtime, which could have been shortened, as a significant portion of the film focuses on the set-up, punctuated by eerie music and vibrant visuals. This extended period of anticipation may test the patience of some viewers, but for those who enjoy slow-building tension, the payoff might be worth the wait.
‘The Rapping’ is a film that won’t appeal to everyone, but it has its merits. It embraces its low-budget nature, effectively creating an atmosphere of mystery and foreboding. While the choice of visual effects and the extended runtime may deter some viewers, those who appreciate imaginative horror storytelling will find elements to admire in this experimental work.
