Transfiguration - A Psychological Body Horror Short Film

In a dim, sunlit studio cluttered with failed sketches and spilled pills, an artist struggles to control himself from compulsive sexual behaviour. Suddenly, his TV turns on before an uncanny reporter torments him for his obsessive artwork in trying to design the perfect human form. His phone also flickers uncontrollably before a text message from his therapist appears and disappears. The artist's reality begins to unravel as his sketchbook begins to flip on its own, showing increasingly grotesque sketches of the "perfect" body. A godlike, sadomasochistic, entity emerges and offers him the brutal consequences of his obsession.

Visual Moodboard

The film’s visual style is moody and atmospheric, relying on sun rays as the main motivating source of light. The palette reflects a stark contrast between the blue deep shadows and the warm sun. Lighting is minimal and used resourcefully to create a sense of emotional repression and hopelessness. The Surgeon will be heavily backlit which creates a natural heavenly ring around the creature, allowing for an angelic, haunting look. The overall lookbook mirrors the film’s somber and ritualistic themes of shame and the claustrophobic world of obsession.

Production Design

Production design plays a crucial role in shaping the aesthetic of Transfiguration. Diving into the opening scene, we’re immediately immersed into the artist’s messy, chaotic studio. Dirty dishes, sexual sketches, and scattered art supplies reveal his self-neglect and obsession. We don’t just use Props and Set Dec as mere background, but a tool to tell the story without any exposition. One of our most vital purchases will be the CRT TV which acts as a portal for The Reporter. This scene pays homage to David Cronenberg’s videodrome, with a little sprinkle of Hellraiser.

SFX MAKEUP

SFX Makeup is a core element to the heart of Transfiguration. As his mental state spirals into madness, it is reflected through his body through grotesque body horror elements. Rather than relying on Post Production Visual Effects, we’re committed to using practical effects as that would bring the visceral surrealistic look to life. These effects are used carefully to construct a thematic message symbolising the horrific cost of the pursuit for perfection. Drawing from films like Hellraiser, The Ugly Stepsister, and Hannibal, we aim to blend beauty and decay, showing the twisted consequence of transformation.

BUDGET BREAKDOWN

We are currently looking to raise $1800 to bring our project to life. Donations raised will go directly towards funding pre-production.

Gear Rental - $800

Production Design - $400

SFX Makeup - $250

Costumes - $100

Catering - $150

Emergencies - $100

Thank you for taking your time to check our project out. We appreciate any form of support whether it is via sharing through social media, email, and/or financial donations.