Sam Fox’s surrealist short film Fck’n Nuts is definitely nutty! Starring Maddie Nichols (Echoes, The Boogeyman) as Sandy and Vincent Stalba (The Cybernaturals, The Blood of the Dinosaurs) as Dan, this short is inspired by Fox’s life growing up with an “insane” family (something I think many can relate to!)

Right from the start, I was mesmerized by the film’s color palette and highly stylized sets. You could pause the film during several moments, and the shots would have a painterly effect that I thought was really beautiful. Juxtaposed with the surprisingly wacky characters and horror elements really added to the film’s humor.

I was genuinely disgusted by these moments of horror, and I am really impressed by what the film’s makeup artists, Isabel Chirinos and Emma Badon, were able to accomplish. Likewise, I really enjoyed the film’s music (made by Scratch Massive), which added to the film’s surreal-retro vibe. And without spoiling anything, the film’s reveal was hidden in plain sight, but you’ll still be left really surprised!

Overall, I really enjoyed Fox’s short and it’s a fun watch, which is even enjoyable through the credits that feature some fun photos. Definitely check it out if you have the chance. The film will be making its festival run listed below:

• L’Etrange (Sept. 5 – Sept. 17) *World Premiere, Paris
• Sydney Underground (Sept. 14)
• Future of Film is Female (Sept. 20) Brooklyn, NY
• Fantastic Fest (Sept. 21 – Sept 28) Austin, TX
• Charlotte Film Festival (Sept. 27 – Oct. 1)
• New Orleans Film Festival (Nov. 3 – Nov. 8)