THE SEATTLE FILM FESTIVAL 2026 REVIEW! Jason Park is a high school student with several award-winning shorts to his name. Parasomnia, the writer-director’s latest, is a jump to new territory for the young filmmaker. The nearly 16-minute story follows Jesse (Jaxon Daine) and his strained friendship with Andrew (Jack Pickard). The former is suffering from insomnia, having not slept for many days. One night, knowing he’s up, Andrew calls on Jesse for help. He agrees and drives to pick up his friend.
After procuring a few supplies, the duo is ready for their starlit escapade. However, unbeknownst to Jesse, the plan is to break in and steal something. Even after prodding, Andrew doesn’t come clean to Jesse about why everything is happening. This causes even further stress on their friendship and leaves Jesse rethinking things all night long.
Jesse and Andrew head into a dark parking garage during their late-night escapade in Parasomnia.
“One night, knowing he’s up, Andrew calls on Jesse for help.”
Parasomnia is a departure for Park. His other films have been ensemble pieces largely centering on the happenings of high school. Here, there’s a stripped-down roster of characters and a whole new approach to filmmaking (for him). The cinematography is unbelievably fantastic. Long takes drive the audience down darkened roads, setting the mood perfectly. The lighting is also fantastic, illuminating just enough so the important action is in the spotlight, but keeping things dark enough to be atmospheric.
Daine is very compelling as the brooding, stoic lead. He plays the part as a little unpredictable and unsure, but with a good head on his shoulders. Pickard is thrilling as the intense friend. He has a scary presence that adds a layer to the mysterious, creepy proceedings. The two play off each other amazingly, which cements their tenuous friendship very well.
Parasomnia is Park’s most assured short to date. It proves he can handle just about any genre, compose beautiful shots, and write meaningful messages in engaging stories. The student director can also elicit natural performances from his talented cast. Jason Park is a naturally born filmmaker and will be making truly astonishing films in the future. How do I know that? Because he’s making them right now with zero budget and a lot of can-do attitude.
Parasomnia screened at the 2026 The Seattle Film Festival.
"…Park’s most assured short to date."
