In Sean Cruser’s short thriller, Ranger Danger, Alan (Tyler Beveridge) wants to scatter his father’s ashes in the woods according to his final wishes. Unfortunately, the woods are a part of a national park, and Alan is stopped by Ranger Dan (Murphy Martin), who informs him that he needs a permit to spread his father’s ashes.
Seeing that Alan is in a deep emotional crisis, Ranger Dan offers to take him to the most beautiful location in the forest, which is fitting for his father. After a very long walk, Alan offers final words to his father…well, I did mention this is a thriller.
“…Alan is stopped by Ranger Dan, who informs him that he needs a permit to spread his father’s ashes.”
Ranger Danger is a thriller, indeed, with a twist of dark comedy. Anyone who has seen as many short films as I have always knows that appearances can be deceiving. This is certainly true as Murphy Martin brings a very likable yet dark tone to Ranger Dan. Tyler Beveridge is the straight guy in the film, and his final words to his father feel authentic…poor guy.
What also helps Ranger Danger is its beautiful forest setting…which should inspire budding filmmakers looking for a cheap place to make a movie.
Overall, Ranger Danger is a solid short film with a setup sure to lull you into uneasy discomfort and a payoff worthy of the thriller genre it sets itself to be.
"…Martin brings a very likable yet dark tone to Ranger Dan."
