Other side of the box: Thriller genre

The rainy, dismal night opens the first scene of the short film Other Side of the Box. A man driving throughout the city has a terrified expression on his face. We see glimpses of a mysterious figure in the rearview mirror that appears to be pursuing him. The man pulls up to an empty warehouse, opens the door, and leaves. Despite his efforts to locate a hiding place, it appears that the person has already located him. He turns as he hears footsteps and spots the shadowy figure standing at the doorway. The apparition approaches and stands over him, grinning, as he stumbles and hits the ground while attempting to flee. Even as he begs for his life, the figure lunges forward and draws a knife. A scuffle ensued, and he made an effort to retaliate. When it appears that there is no chance left, a group armed with rifles approaches and storms the building. The figure is apprehended and the man is spared. It is revealed that the man was recruited to keep him quiet during the significant trial in which he testified. After the man was saved and placed under guard, police conducted an investigation. As the titles start to roll, the man testifying in court is shown sobbing and assuring that justice will be done. The movie ends with the man being led out of the courthouse, where it is ultimately proved to be safe and undamaged. However, the figure can be seen quietly strolling in the background, opening the door for a follow-up.

The tension and suspense throughout the entire film had audiences on the tip of their seats. The surprise twist ending added even more shock value to the already thrilling plot. Although the little film left viewers wanting more, it was an exciting ride all around. An essential component of any thriller film is suspense, and this one demonstrates how to create it well.

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