ABOUT REFRAiN
A brief introduction to the story and the thought process that lead to its creation.
Statement of Intent
Refrain is a short horror film about the affects of mundanity, failure and powerlessness in the face of time's inexorable march onwards. Created as a personal take on the representation of the pressures and fears of an increasingly merit-driven society, Refrain aims to visualise the struggles of an artist seeking recognition in their work and life.
​
This film serves as an outlet for the anxieties of artists and filmmakers worldwide, and touches upon one's fears of inneptitude.
Synopsis
Ryan is an aspiring poet on the edge. His works are never good enough for critics and he has never received recognition for his writing.
While at the beach seeking the ever-illusive inspiration he so desperately needs, he begins to hear a mysterious call, beckoning him to a cave nearby. As he follows the call and enters the cave, he suddenly finds himself in a sunny cove with a pool ahead of him.
Upon entering the water, he puts his latest failure into his empty bottle and tosses it away. He is then pulled into the cold depths, and his horrifying fate is thus sealed.