When She Sings (U.K., 2026)
Official synopsis
In a dreary, British seaside town, a talented artist is haunted by a sinister mermaid, and terrorized by a coven of strange locals.
Review
When She Sings is a classic example of fine folk horror cinema. Director Paul Holbrook invests his short film with a sense of dread throughout as artist Fay Corr (Laura Bayston, who cowrote the screenplay with Holbrook) is harassed by local townsfolk speaking in mysterious short bursts as she grieves over the death of her sister. Cinematographer James Oldham wonderfully captures the beauty of the coastal setting and the bleakness of Fay’s world, with Composers Hannah Cartwright and Ross Tones aiding greatly with the short’s mood.
Moryow (U.K., 2026)
Official synopsis
A recovering addict, desperate to escape her past, finds herself on a cursed fishing boat headed into a Lovecraftian nightmare where the depths of the ocean feed on her darkest sins.
Review
Writer/director Ted Wilkes weaves a hypnotic tale of supernatural terror at sea brought on by guilt and grief. Cathy Wippell gives a remarkable performance as Sammie, an addict harboring some terrible memories who pleads with fisherman Anthony (Jamie O’Neill, also giving a fine performance) for work on his boat. He accepts, knowing full well the horrors that the deep sea holds. The visual effects crew turns in marvelous work that truly enhances the eldritch atmosphere that Wilkes envisions and that Cinematographer Michael Peel captures in startling black-and-white. Moryow is a truly unique slice of Lovecraftian fear fare.
When She Sings and Moryow screened as part of Dark Nights Film Fest, which ran on October 10, 2026 in Sydney, Australia. For more information, visit https://www.darknightsfilmfest.com/.
