Strike is a 2024 supernatural horror short film, written by Hendrik Harms and directed by Mark Patterson. When the lonely and isolated Francine is gifted a case of matches made in her controlling husband’s factory, she discovers that within the flames of each match resides the tortured soul of a deceased factory worker, cursed to appear with every strike.
Providing an adroit look at separation and forlornness, Strike takes an unusual approach to its horror. Where a supernatural element is usually the antagonistic role, the film flips this on its head—providing a comforting presence to the protagonist rather than a negative one. Indeed, the real threat to our main character resides in the living, the antagonistic role is solely taken up by her supposedly doting husband. While beginning as a man trying his best to care for his newly paralysed wife, the film soon calls into question his compassion. The tragedy is called into question more and more, soon becoming clear that it was no accident at all.
With amazing performances from the minuscule cast, each actor fully embraces their character as well as the period. However, the best performance comes from our supernatural entity, played by Amy Anderson, who gives an intrinsic visual performance throughout. Having no spoken dialog, her performance solely relies on visual relation—expressing herself expertly through physical acting.
While having very minimal effects throughout, what few are implemented is achieved through visual CGI. Though I’m personally not a fan of VFX, their limited use, and eminence certainly elevate this. Additionally, the ethereal smoke cloud of the specter’s appearance certainly isn’t something a small-budget production can easily produce by physical means.
A unique tale of vengeance from beyond the grave, Strike is an engrossing yet concise supernatural horror with a distinctive twist. With its notably refreshing narrative, fantastic performances, and impressive implementation of a limited budget, the film is a testament to independent filmmaking—providing an outstanding paranormal period horror.
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Hey there, I’m Jim and I’m located in London, UK. I am a Writer and Managing Director here at Grimoire of Horror. A lifelong love of horror and writing has led me down this rabbit hole, allowing me to meet many amazing people and experience some truly original artwork. I specialise in world cinema, manga/graphic novels, and video games but will sometime traverse into the unknown in search of adventure.