The Chair Short Horror Film Explained, Cast, and Where to Watch
by Rubaditsha | Updated Jun 15, 2023
The Chair Short Horror Film Explained
In the South, a small town is devastated by a deadly poisonous mold, and the film "The Chair" tells the story through the eyes of a teenager who is trying to come to terms with the situation after losing his mother. The protagonist grapples with grief, anger, and the overwhelming complexity of it all. "The Chair" presents a powerful and deeply moving narrative that delves into the conflict between nature and mankind. The film creates an immersive and eerie atmosphere, enveloping the audience in a haunting dream while exploring timeless questions.
Grainger David, the writer and director, drew inspiration for his NYU graduate thesis project from his upbringing in South Carolina. Intrigued by how childhood memories can become distorted over time, especially those stemming from dark and tragic events, David revisited a memory of his mother removing a dark and menacing mold stain from the ceiling of his bedroom following Hurricane Hugo in 1989. Although the exact events may have been altered by time, the film effectively conveys a blend of emotions and raises questions about the relationship between life and nature, particularly the distinct and ever-present humidity of the Southern region.
Filmed on location in South Carolina, "The Chair" captivates viewers with its visually arresting opening shot. The authentic settings imbue David's film with a genuine atmosphere, and the cinematography enhances the visual allure, making the audience feel as though they are right alongside the main character, experiencing the story firsthand. Despite the tragic nature of the narrative, the score remains understated, never overshadowing the power of the images. The editing and pacing of the film allow viewers to fully absorb each moment, providing emotional space for reflection and processing.
Once the atmospheric foundation is established, the film's emotional impact relies on its effective storytelling. The screenplay feels raw and authentic, and the choice to narrate the story from the perspective of a child adds another layer of compelling depth, as we witness the gradual loss of the protagonist's youthful innocence. The narrator and the main actor portray different facets of the same character, bringing distinct perspectives to the screen. The actor conveys the character's inner turmoil without uttering a word, immersing viewers in his experience. On the other hand, the narrator, with a slight distance from the events, tells the story with a composed demeanor that intensifies the emotional resonance.
Although "The Chair" is not a recent release, it recently premiered online, allowing audiences to finally experience the film after all these years. In 2012, the short film had a successful festival run, garnering recognition at prestigious events like Telluride, the Official Competition of Cannes, and the 63rd Berlinale. It also received awards at SXSW, Aspen ShortsFest, and LAFF (RIP). Currently, Grainger David is working on his feature film "The Wall at the End of the Road," which is loosely extrapolated from "The Chair."
The Chair Short Film Curry Barker Explained
Just under 23 minutes pass by in a blur as you watch the film. It's disorienting and riveting, making you question if the Chair has somehow infected you as well. The story revolves around Reese (played by Anthony Pavone) who discovers an antique chair on the side of the road in front of a seemingly well-maintained suburban house. Intrigued, he decides to take it home on his six-month anniversary, unaware of the drastic changes it will bring.
The chair appears like a normal wood dining chair, with pristine green upholstery and well-preserved wood. There's nothing particularly remarkable about it at first glance. Reese's girlfriend, however, finds it odd and expresses her discomfort. Although she doesn't overreact, she suggests that Reese should get rid of it. Despite her reservations, Reese considers it "homey," while she finds it creepy.
She senses a negative energy emanating from the chair. He sits in it, assuring her he'll return it, but suddenly finds himself seated in front of the same house he took the chair from, disoriented about the time and location. Unintentionally leaving the chair behind with the car hatch open, Reese returns home to discover that his girlfriend now has the chair.
She claims to have found it on the side of the road and has changed her opinion, deeming it "homey." Strangely, Reese has no recollection of the past week. In that lost time, he has lost his job, friends, and memories. He believes the chair is to blame, feeling a negative energy that leaves him agitated and mean.
His girlfriend, however, accuses him of deflecting responsibility, claiming he has become aggressive, racist, and was fired from his job. Despite their argument, the chair remains.The chair has now been moved to the bedroom, and during one sleepless night, Reese turns it to face the wall. To his horror, it turns back around, revealing an older man with a smile seated in it.
This disturbing sight frightens both Reese and Julie. Julie screams until the man vanishes, seemingly satisfied, and they both return to sleep. However, the next day, Julie has no recollection of the incident. By this point, Reese is convinced that he is either sick or has suffered brain damage. During breakfast, he recounts his experience from the previous night, and Julie suddenly blurts out, "Dead Man Franklin? He comes with the chair."
The Chair Short Film Cast
Cast
Role
Jonnathon Cripple
Old Man Franklin
David Alan Graf
Officer Morgan
Seth Goodfellow
Officer Rodgers
Haley Schwartz
Julie
Anthony Pavone
Reese
The Chair Short Film: Where to Watch?
The Chair short film has gained many views on YouTube. It's worth noting that recent blockbuster hits such as Smile by Parker Finn and Lights Out by David F. Sandberg originated as short films. Considering this, it leaves us pondering if The Chair will make its way to the big screen in the near future.
Directed by Curry Barker, The Chair made an impact at the Los Angeles Short Film Fest, where it was nominated for BEST FILM. Additionally, it reached the SEMI-FINALIST stage at the Burbank International Film Festival. The talented team behind the short includes Adlih Torres, Anthony Pavone, and Curry Barker as the producers.
The Chair Short Horror Film Explained:FAQs
"The Chair" tells the story of a teenager in a small town devastated by a deadly poisonous mold. It follows the protagonist's journey of grappling with grief and the complex situation after losing his mother.
"The Chair" was filmed on location in South Carolina, which lends an authentic atmosphere to the film.
The film creates an immersive and eerie atmosphere through its cinematography, visually arresting opening shot, understated score, and effective storytelling.