Sometimes just a warning and the effects of a bizarre infection can be as disturbing as actual carnage and death.
This is shown in the short “Nova” by David McAbee. It is now streaming on Alter’s YouTube channel, and you can also watch it at the end of this article. It might inspire you to get a script ready for the next Killer Shorts Horror Short Screenplay Competition.
The Plot
Dr. Nova Thorpe has taken part in an experiment that could have altered the course of humanity, but it has gone horribly wrong. It created a monster that has infected her with something that is causing her body to break down. Now she must record a warning that the result of the experiment must be destroyed.
Kill It Now!
The situation is reminiscent of many sci-fi horror movies where scientists try to play God, with horrible consequences. However, the creature itself turns out to be similar to The Thing, albeit more powerful. This short is just a brief but effective scene in the story. We’ve never seen what happened before, but that only leaves us to imagine the worst.
Most of the short is told through one shot of the camera circling around the heroine while she is trying to get the message out. There is a heavy focus on the infection, which oftentimes makes it more difficult for her to keep talking. It creates a very disturbing body horror sequence, helped by good acting and a creepy atmosphere.
The bleak ending also creates an even more bleak picture of the future of this short’s universe. This scenario would surely spell out doom for the rest of the crew, if not for the whole world. This is a haunting way to end a haunting short.
Conclusion
Nova is a bleak, disturbing sci-fi horror short, that uses atmosphere, body horror, and interesting camera work to create a sense of dread. It’s a great reminder to never play God.
Watch it below.
Connect with the Filmmakers:
Director’s Instagram– David McAbee
