Alien: Specimen (2019)

The 2019 short film “Alien: Specimen,” directed by Kelsey Taylor, offers viewers a concentrated yet no less powerful look at classic motifs of fear and isolation. The title itself hints at a certain atmosphere, and combined with the “short film” genre, promises a dense and dynamic narrative. The story centers on a greenhouse employee whose seemingly routine and solitary work is disrupted by the appearance of inexplicable and disturbing phenomena.

Plot (spoiler-free)

The action unfolds in an isolated greenhouse, where the only inhabitants are supposed to be the protagonist, portrayed by Jolene Andersen, and her faithful companion, a dog named Goose. This idyllic, at first glance, setting quickly darkens: the woman begins to notice inexplicable “peculiarities” that threaten the usual order and, possibly, her very life. As the tension mounts, the ordinary surroundings transform into a stage for an unfolding nightmare, where each new discovery only intensifies the feeling of anxiety and the anticipation of an inevitable confrontation with the unknown. The film skillfully plays on expectations, slowly revealing the nature of the threat that permeates this confined world.

Why You Should Watch

• Tense Atmosphere: Thanks to Kelsey Taylor's masterful work, the film effectively creates a sense of escalating threat and paranoia using minimal means.
• Unique Setting: A greenhouse, full of vegetation, serves as an unusual and memorable location, contrasting with the frightening events unfolding within.
• Acting Performance: Jolene Andersen convincingly conveys the evolution from calm to fear, while Goose's presence adds emotional depth and uniqueness to the film. Aubrey Wakeling also makes a distinctive contribution to the dynamic.
• Concentrated Storytelling: As a short film, “Alien: Specimen” wastes no time on unnecessary details, instantly immersing the viewer in the core conflict and effectively developing the plot.
• Genre Immersion: The film skillfully plays with known elements of science fiction horror, offering a fresh perspective on themes of isolation and sudden invasion.

Themes

“Alien: Specimen” explores themes of isolation and invasion, showing how a familiar space can become a source of threat. It touches on human vulnerability in the face of the unknown and uncontrollable, as well as the ability to survive in extreme conditions. The contrast between the living, yet artificially created, ecosystem of the greenhouse and the escalating horror underscores the fragility of balance and the illusion of control over nature.

Verdict

“Alien: Specimen” is a noteworthy short film that demonstrates how, with a skillful approach, even a short runtime can create a deeply atmospheric and captivating work. Director Kelsey Taylor and actors Jolene Andersen, Goose, and Aubrey Wakeling successfully realize an intriguing synopsis, providing viewers with a sharp and memorable experience. The film is recommended for anyone who appreciates intense sci-fi thrillers with horror elements and is ready for a concentrated yet powerful narrative. It is an example of how the short film genre can be just as effective as a feature film in creating deep emotions and a strong impression.