An Observational Dive into The Chair Short Horror Film
Set in a small Southern town ravaged by a lethal mold outbreak, “The Chair” narrates the tale from the perspective of a teenager grappling with the aftermath of losing his mother. Amidst stages of grief and simmering fury, the protagonist navigates a web of complexities, pitting nature against humankind. The film weaves a captivating narrative delving into existential dilemmas while shrouding the audience in an unsettling ambiance.
Writer and director, Grainger David, draws from his South Carolina upbringing for this NYU graduate thesis project. Reflecting on the distortion of childhood memories over time, particularly in the wake of somber events, David draws inspiration from a recollection of his mother combating a menacing mold stain post-Hurricane Hugo in 1989. Despite time’s alteration of the specific details, the film resonates with a blend of sentiments, prompting reflections on life’s bond with nature, notably the perpetual humidity of the Southern locale.
Filmed on-site in South Carolina, “The Chair” enthralls with a visually striking opening sequence. The genuine locales infuse David’s creation with an authentic aura, while the cinematography amplifies the visual allure, immersing viewers in the protagonist’s journey. Amidst the sullen storyline, the score maintains a subtle presence, allowing the imagery’s poignancy to shine. Through meticulous editing and pacing, the film grants emotional breathing space for introspection and contemplation.
With the atmospheric ambiance set, the film’s emotional resonance hinges on its storytelling prowess. The raw and genuine screenplay, intertwined with a child’s perspective as the narrative lens, adds profound layers as we witness the protagonist’s gradual loss of innocence. The dual portrayal of the character by the actor and narrator introduces varied dimensions to the storyline. While the actor conveys inner turmoil through silence, the narrator, positioned at a slight distance from the events, narrates with a composed demeanor, intensifying emotional impact.
While “The Chair” isn’t a recent release, its online debut marks a fresh avenue for audiences to delve into its narrative depths. The short film achieved acclaim during its festival run in 2012, garnering accolades at esteemed events like Telluride, the Official Competition of Cannes, and the 63rd Berlinale, in addition to awards at SXSW, Aspen ShortsFest, and LAFF (RIP). Presently, Grainger David is actively engaged in his forthcoming feature film, “The Wall at the End of the Road,” drawing loose thematic threads from his earlier work, “The Chair.”
Delving into the Enigmatic “The Chair” Film by Curry Barker
As you get engrossed in the film’s just under 23-minute runtime, you’re swept into a whirlwind, questioning if the Chair’s mystique has subtly seeped into your senses. The storyline revolves around Reese (portrayed by Anthony Pavone), who stumbles upon an antique chair near a meticulously maintained suburban abode on his six-month anniversary, unknowing of the tumultuous turn awaiting him.
The chair, a seemingly ordinary wooden piece with pristine green upholstery and well-kept wood, bears no ostensible peculiarity at a glance. Reese’s girlfriend, however, senses an eerie aura surrounding it, expressing discomfort. Despite her reservations, Reese, finding solace in its familiarity, deems it cozy, a sentiment starkly contrasting with her disquiet.
As Reese sits on the chair, assuring his girlfriend of its imminent return, a bewildering shift occurs, finding him disoriented in front of the house from where he procured the chair, with time and space blending into a perplexing haze. Unintentionally leaving the chair and returning home, Reese discovers his girlfriend now in possession of it.
Claiming to have found it aside from the road, she undergoes a change in stance, now viewing it as inviting. Strangely, Reese’s memory of the preceding week vanishes, coinciding with the loss of his job, friends, and memories. Blaming the chair for his woes, Reese perceives a malevolent energy engulfing him, fueling unrest and bitterness.
Amidst accusations from his girlfriend about his behavioral shift towards aggression and racism culminating in job termination, the chair remains a constant. Transitioning to their bedroom, the chair’s ominous presence intensifies as Reese, during a sleepless night, twists it to face the wall, only for it to swivel back, unveiling an elderly man with a sinister grin seated on it.
The sight triggers fear in Reese and Julie, leading to a harrowing confrontation. Julie’s subsequent amnesia the next day further mystifies Reese, prompting his conviction of impending sickness or brain injury. During breakfast, as he elaborates on the previous night’s ordeal, Julie’s abrupt mention of “Dead Man Franklin” linked to the chair deepens the enigma.
Key Players in The Chair Short Film
Cast | Role |
| Jonnathon Cripple | Old Man Franklin |
| David Alan Graf | Officer Morgan |
| Seth Goodfellow | Officer Rodgers |
| Haley Schwartz | Julie |
| Anthony Pavone | Reese |
Where to Watch “The Chair” Short Film?
The Chair short film has garnered significant traction on YouTube. Noteworthy blockbusters like “Smile” by Parker Finn and “Lights Out” by David F. Sandberg originated as short films, provoking speculation if “The Chair” holds cinematic potential on the big screen in the future.
Under the direction of Curry Barker, “The Chair” left an impression at the Los Angeles Short Film Fest, securing a nomination for BEST FILM. It also reached the SEMI-FINALIST stage at the Burbank International Film Festival. The collaborative prowess of the team, featuring Adlih Torres, Anthony Pavone, and Curry Barker as producers, underscores the short film’s creative finesse.
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