By Melissa Antoinette Garza
This horror short follows a man (Richard O’Brien) who is working in his wood-shop, on an unknown project. There, we watch this stunning creature measure, drill, screw, strip and hammer the contraption . He is meticulous with every move and makes certain that the device is perfect. Though, his motives remain unclear until a devastating end.
The man is a well dressed gent, who has the outward appearance of someone timid and reserved. When building his creation, he’s confident of every move he makes. He pays close attention to every detail of his design. His concept is perfectly put into practice and when finished, the results are precisely what the man wanted.
With only a single line of dialogue from the man’s off-camera wife (Charlotte Cornwell), all that can be heard is the sounds of creation and then extermination.
THE CONTRAPTION is the directorial debut of James Dearden, who is most notably known for directing FATAL ATTRACTION (1987). Even this early in his career, Dearden was able to conjure up a stirring dark tone and a slow-burn pace. This is a very effective tale, told in a unique fashion.
Tied with THE INK THIEF (1994), it’s safe to say that, THE CONTRAPTION has the sexiest lead character of all time. Fine, you caught me. Both are portrayed by Richard O’Brien. It doesn’t make it any less true!
Of course, I initially sought this out because of O’Brien’s performance. Everything he does is done brilliantly. I enjoy nothing more than drowning in his work. Without fail, he always and consistently delivers.
Here, without speaking a word, O’Brien skillfully conveys the significance of the project. Even when the item is unknown, the precise and methodical nature he exhibits, reveals how important it is. O’Brien’s characters always pull me in. They own me and my attention from the moment he takes the screen. Here is no exception. He is remarkably beautiful! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Richard O’Brien is living art. His existence is the most powerful of aphrodisiacs.
I was fortunate enough to find this 8-minute gem on YOUTUBE. It is still currently up there to stream for free. I suggest you watch it now. If you have downloading software, grab it and save it. If it’s taken down, I imagine that it will be a near impossible find.
Scared Stiff Rating: 8/10 Richard O’Brien Rating: 11/10
