Sneha Jaiswal (Twitter | Instagram)
The short horror film Mary’s Mixtape starts off with a familiar vibe, reminiscent of the eerie world of ‘Stranger Things.’ A young woman, Mary, finds a mixtape at an accident scene, sparking a series of unsettling experiences. Directed and written by Sam Prim and featuring Lucilla Fell in the lead role, the film explores the thin line between comfort and horror.
Interestingly, the mixtape fills its listeners with a unique sense of euphoria, almost hypnotizing them. This idea of something soothing turning sinister is intriguing. Yet, surprisingly, the film fails to deliver real scares, leaving us wanting more.
Visually, Mary’s Mixtape captures a retro, nostalgic feel, and Fell’s performance is commendable. However, the film’s overall tone feels flat, lacking the peaks and valleys that make horror compelling. Clocking in at just thirteen minutes, it feels like an appetizer rather than a full meal—a tease for a larger story that never unfolds.
The theme of music as a double-edged sword is worth noting. According to a 2022 study from the Journal of Medical Internet Research, listening to certain types of music can alter mood and perception, supporting the notion that what we listen to can deeply influence our experience. This fusion of enjoyment and potential danger adds a layer of complexity to the film’s narrative.
In a world where horror often hinges on jump scares, Mary’s Mixtape takes a different route. While it might not send chills down your spine, it offers some food for thought about how we interact with media and the hidden fears that lurk beneath the surface. If you’re in need of a light distraction, it could be worth your while.
For a quick watch, you can find Mary’s Mixtape on YouTube.
