Filmmaker, composer and musician, turned actor and director; Joe Kowalski brings us a delightful combination of tension and humour in his film, Don’t Go in the Basement. The film, which has been selected for the 2022 Garden State Film Festival, follows Joe as he housesits for his friend.
Don’t Go in the Basement is everything you could want from a short indie horror film. There is a certain quirky aesthetic to the cinematography and overall style of the film that works very well. The use of monologue adds a narrative element to a classic plot – you know damn well he’s going in that basement!
Kowalski makes impressive use of the iPhone 6s use to shoot the film, demonstrating how creativity and talent is worth more than even the biggest of budgets. The camera angles are consistently used for effect. The music and lighting are particular stand out features of the film, constructing an eerie atmosphere to compliment the strange dolls that haunt the shadows.
As the protagonist, Kowalski is extremely compelling. He brings an engaging quirkiness to the film that works beautifully. It is this unique combination of humour and horror that makes Don’t Go in the Basement stand out as something a little bit different.
As Joe finds himself drawn towards the basement, things of course take a turn for the worst. The creepy dolls are more dangerous than originally thought. The narrative arc may be simple, but it is very well executed. Kowalski makes every second of the film count.
A special mention must go to Michelle DiPoala for making the creepy dolls!
An all-round enjoyable film reflecting the talent of Joe Kowalski. I look forward to seeing more of his work in the future.
Watch Don’t Go in the Basement now!