Sometimes horror isn't about acute fright, or building atmosphere. In capable hands, a story can be all but bereft of usual elements of the genre, and still be thrilling, chilling, and cringe-worthy. 'Instinct' is an outstanding instance of how the most refined, underhanded subtlety can nevertheless be molded into an exemplar of craftsmanship both unique and ghastly.
The deep crimson catches our eyes first - immediately as it's contrasted against a stark white background, and no less as it's later centered in busier shots. There is measure of shock felt in how the hue is visualized, but it's also greatly alluring. The visuals of 'Instinct' are captivating in their depiction of a sequence of events at once familiar, cultured, rousing, and jarring. Costume design, makeup, and lighting are all meticulously considered and executed, looking outright ravishing at all times. The production design here is exquisite, and director Maria Alice Arida exercises great diligence to ensure we soak in every moment.
The screenplay she's written with Rosita Lama Muvdi, small though the tale may be, is just as entrancing as it defies all expectations we may have while the short progresses. There's as much careful detail in the writing as there is in the set decoration and production broadly, and it's a true pleasure to watch unfold. The characters are full of vivid personality that's strong, forceful, and frankly terrifying, but expressed in the most deliciously cunning way - and leads Jordan Monaghan and Christine Kellogg-Darrin bring Camila and Isabelle to life with dazzling, inescapable magnetism and charm. There is such intense, incredible nuance in their expressions, speaking volumes with the slightest movement, while they maintain astounding poise at all times. It's riveting to watch these two on our screens individually, nevermind as scene partners, and they make 'Instinct' worth watching regardless of its otherwise superb construction. I immediately want to seek out more features from everyone involved.
It's also worth mentioning the music composed by Erick Del Aguila. At no point does it take our attention away from the scenes at hand, but it works so slyly to complement the visuals and the mood that it's a gift in and of itself. Again, truly - every part of this short is just phenomenal.
Anyone looking for an abjectly visceral thrill of any kind may feel left a bit put out, as this is a film where only the most delicate touch is applied to every last element. Yet in that discriminating elegance, it is just as if not more bewitching, blood-tingling, and breathtaking as more straightforward genre pieces. It's not for all viewers, but I absolutely love 'Instinct,' and I look forward to watching it again and again.
