In Stanislav Puzdriak’s horror short Unfinished Chapter, Agent Collins (Kazy Tauginas) and Taylor (Lucas Hogan) investigate a series of mysterious disappearances linked to a reclusive writer, Jacob Harris (Anthony Bradford), who lives in a cabin in the woods. Jacob says he has been unable to sell books for years and sought solitude to write.
The agents are there because everything Jacob writes comes true, including the recent death of a victim named Irene. As Agent Collins reads the page in Jacob’s typewriter, it describes in exact detail the events unfolding in the cabin at that moment.
“Everything Jacob writes comes true, including the recent death of a victim named Irene.”
As Collins delves deeper, he experiences surreal visions, including one of an invisible man tied to the most recent victim, Irene. Agent Taylor decides it’s time to leave when things get out of hand, but Jacob warns him, “You can’t go anywhere… it hasn’t been written.”
One thing I learned from Unfinished Chapter is that if you’re serious about becoming an indie filmmaker, invest in a professional camera or partner with a local cinematographer who has one. Upgrading from a cell phone to professional equipment makes all the difference in achieving a cinematic look.
The ironic title of Unfinished Chapter beautifully sets the stage for a much bigger story—even with an end-credit scene. Director Stanislav Puzdriak and writer Connor Jaynes establish a strong foundation, develop underlying lore, and build excitement for what’s to come. It’s an excellent beginning.
"…Everything Jacob writes comes true."
