Adventure and Apparitions

Read Time:3 Minute, 47 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Night Train
–

Genre: Horror, Short
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 5m
Director(s): A.J. Serrano
Writer(s): A.J. Serrano
Cast: Cairo Zion, Daniel Girdo, Keaton Monger, Zoë Wolkoff, Isabel Huynh, Glenn Simonelli
Where To Watch: available to watch here: www.youtube.com

RAVING REVIEW: Submerged in the dark, echoing tunnels of New York City's subway, NIGHT TRAIN thrusts its audience into an exhilarating adventure that marries the thrill of 1990s teen horror with a fresh, modern twist. Directed by A.J. Serrano, this five-minute film masterfully navigates the eerie lore of an urban legend, presenting a narrative rich in suspense and intrigue. The protagonists, portrayed by Daniel Girdo and Cairo Zion, are teenagers on the brink of adulthood, wrestling with the mysteries of the subway during a nocturnal trip that promises both danger and excitement.

NIGHT TRAIN opens with a visually stunning sequence, setting the stage in a decrepit subway station—a perfect setting for a ghost story. The scene is bathed in stark, neon lights that cast long shadows and create an atmosphere brimming with suspense. Cinematographer Eric Schleicher excels in transforming the subway scene into a visual treat that feels both otherworldly and intimately familiar. This is complemented by a sound design that heightens the sense of isolation, wrapping the viewer in a cocoon of eerie silence punctuated by the distant, unsettling echoes of the subway.

The heart of NIGHT TRAIN beats with the dynamic between Girdo and Zion, whose portrayals of friendship anchor the film’s core. Their journey is propelled by a script that pays homage to horror classics while injecting a spirited edge. Serrano's screenplay is a tightrope walk of storytelling, maintaining brisk pacing while threading a tale of nostalgia that resonates.

Despite its brief runtime, NIGHT TRAIN leaves an indelible mark on its viewers, suggesting a more significant, untold story that could further be explored with its haunting setting and characters. The film concludes with a sense of unfinished business, ending as a tantalizing cliffhanger that could frustrate some viewers even as it cements the film’s allure.

The meticulous attention to detail in the set design and the careful framing of each shot ensure that NIGHT TRAIN stands out in the crowded field of indie horror films. Introducing a film grain adds a layer of retro appeal that enhances the film’s nostalgic feel without sacrificing its modern sensibility. The intriguing yet only briefly explored central mythos leaves much room for future development. A deeper dive into this urban legend could provide a richer narrative and a more satisfying resolution.

As Serrano's directorial debut, NIGHT TRAIN is a formidable entry into the horror genre. The film cleverly mixes classic teen horror elements with innovative techniques, producing a polished and thought-provoking product. The collaborative efforts of the cast and crew shine through, presenting a film that is as professional as it is passionate about pushing the boundaries of its genre.

NIGHT TRAIN is a testament to the enduring power of atmospheric horror over explicit terror. It invites genre aficionados and novices alike into its web of suspense and nostalgia. The film resonates with viewers long after the credits roll and sparks anticipation for future projects in Serrano’s mind. This short film serves as both a nod to the past and a bold step forward, revitalizing the horror genre with its innovative approach and captivating storytelling.

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[photo courtesy of HAUNTED BASEMENT]

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