Paracosm: Visions of Ecstasy Blend into Bloody Deceit

Adam Van Dyke’s Paracosm, a ten-minute chamber horror, is nothing if not compact. The plot, of course, but especially its driver: a drug dealer with a doorstep delivery (and pickup) service who says little and does exactly as much as necessary. 

The luminescent, futuristic capsule that the shabby Mak (Paige Henderson) buys from her must sell for a lot because this is not your run-of-the-mill backdoor guy in day-old clothes (that would better fit Mak herself). Instead, this silent businesswoman (Nicole Murray) is dressed to impress. It is a little less impressive, even somewhat clumsy when her stony, no-nonsense facade breaks into momentary flirtation.

Though it clashes with the character type, this slip into nearly predatory coquetry is better in line with the general air of dread and watching eyes that the film creates using skulking camerawork and psychedelic special effects. Of course, Mak notices little. And for all that she is present in the film, the character is akin to a prop or pedestal upon which to observe (and be horrified by) the Red Woman’s shady business practices. 

The actors share writing credit with Van Dyke. Paracosm sets out to establish the mood of an atmospheric horror but is more successful as a slasher flick. Its omniscient, omnipotent villain, hapless and high character fated to die, and penetrative gore, are certainly characteristic. The rest is best seen as evidence of enthusiasm. 

Watch Paracosm Short Film