Abi Van Andel delivers a profoundly gripping performance as housebound agoraphobic Jo in Mike Thompson’s psychological thriller ‘Threshold’.
The short film, set entirely in one location, follows an anxiety-ridden voice-over artist who spends her days in solitude. Jo appears content in her own isolation – with her work propped up by a home studio. We learn, through a voice-over session, that the film is set during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her little world is about to be rattled when she feels the presence of an intruder.
High praise for Abi Van Andel (Jo), her tense execution is captivating, flawless and felt. High tension is supported by truly gorgeous cinematography – flowing and of cinematic quality. A mystical soundtrack aids viewer curiosity and anxiety. Mike Thompson directs a fitting thriller for the times we live in.
Pulling off a 20 minute one-location short (with little dialogue) is not an easy task, but with a masterful script by Thompson and Joe Stockton, ‘Threshold’ is one of those shorts that should be placed on a pedestal. A beautifully crafted film that should be examined by film-school students or even adapted to feature length. A triumph in short filmmaking.
