In his extraordinary one-man short film, Alex Probst unfolds a suspense-laden thriller that explores the profound unease and paranoia of a young man grappling with Somniphobia, the fear of sleeping. Set in a solitary woodland cabin, the protagonist wrestles with the dread that sleep may lead to his demise, haunted by the unsettling belief that his surroundings are compromised and that he’s being watched. Probst’s storytelling is gripping, weaving a tale of isolation and terror that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
A remarkable achievement lies in the fact that Probst single-handedly crafted the entire film, demonstrating his prowess in filmmaking. Despite being a low-budget production, the film boasts cinematic technicality, expertly shot in black and white. Probst’s attention to detail shines through in well-framed shots, deliberate slow-zoom sequences, and thoughtful lighting choices.
The film’s suspenseful and eerie atmosphere is heightened by Probst’s compelling performance, showcasing his acting prowess. Remarkably, the entire production, from concept to execution, was accomplished in one night during the challenging backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic. Alex Probst deserves commendation for this filmmaking triumph, delivering a haunting and suspenseful short that leaves a lasting impact on its audience.
