Film Review: In Defence of Traditional Marriage (short film) (2013)

Rate This Movie

SYNOPSIS:

This satire of the marriage equality movement is presented with a documentary feel, until an act 2 twist brings in classic horror tropes.

REVIEW:

Marriage is not often a topic for a horror, even a horror short, and so I was most curious about what to expect from this 6-minute piece. I was pleasantly surprised and thought that the juxtaposition of romance and horror worked a treat. Because the lighting was kept very ‘nice’ and cosy, when the blood finally comes – and boy, does it! – it feels even more out of place. Plus, it was shot in a very realistic way, which makes what we end up seeing all the more horrifying!

It starts out as being a typical video diary that people often have for their weddings, with the guests being interviewed about the happy couple. However, we soon realise that it is not exactly a typical wedding, and this is where the horror twist comes into it. I don’t want to give away what the twist is, because the shock value is part of the humour, but it’s definitely entertaining. With a grand finale that’s something akin to the ending of Carrie, the horror side of things really do come into full swing towards the end. But the build up to this is still enjoyable to watch, with the growing sensation that all is not what it initially appears.

This is a playful short film that manages to hit the nail on the head with the brilliant combination of horror and comedy. It is amusing to watch yet still delivers on the blood front, and so this ticks all the boxes as far as I’m concerned. I give my full praise to Thom Newell who wrote, directed and edited this piece – it is definitely one to be proud of!

What’s amazing is that this is such a simple idea really, with no grand CGI effects required or deep, meaningful back-stories put in place – it just works. It is a concept that everyone can easily understand, get into and enjoy. The actors all did a good job, it was shot well and the pace was just right. If you only have a few minutes to spare, yet you still want a nice dose of horror, give In Defence of Traditional Marriage a go. You won’t regret it.