I feel like for many of us horror fans, the genre would be slightly less interesting if we were somehow able to prove ghosts don’t exist.
Austin Birtch’s short film Ghosts Do Not Exist opens with a character definitely tempting fate, by reciting Bloody Mary into the mirror. It turns out this is a case from 1978, being investigated by a scientist clearing seeking answers.
To compound matters he found out his research funding is being pulled, giving us the impression it is now or never for his project. With the stakes raised, he saddles up for one last attempt at making a connection with the paranormal.
Ghosts Do Not Exist, surprisingly for a short more of a slow burn, which builds mood and atmosphere instead of going for a cheap shock that may not live long in the memory. This feels like a classic ghost story with a truly haunting final shot.
Ghosts Do Not Exist screens as part of Toronto After Dark Film Festival 2023.
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