Funsize Epics Vol. 2 Shorts Block
Director/Writers Dakota Millett, and Michael Fischer’s horror comedy is a short begging to be made in to a feature film. It’s probably not a coincidence that “Up on the Housetop” feels a lot like a proof of concept short rather than actual short film. I honestly don’t begrudge them for that, because both creators have their fingers on the pulse of what they’re trying to accomplish and what they do accomplish in this short format.
“Up on the Housetop” has the potential to be a fun, gory, inventive, and shockingly touchy Christmas themed horror comedy and I’m all here for it. I’m glad that the pair of directors allow us a preview, because I had a good time in the short window we’re allotted. On Christmas, four siblings re-unite for a Christmas get together to catch up. On Christmas morning though one of the siblings accidentally shoots and murders Santa.
This prompts them to scramble in horror, especially now that Santa’s reindeer are angry, blood thirsty, and desperate for vengeance. The only caveat to “Up on the Housetop” is that it feels like the directors are holding back or keeping some concepts withdrawn. Again, it’s not a hindrance on the short itself, as the collective team are great. The writing is tight and clever, the performances are stellar, and I genuinely wanted more, even in spite of the budget not allowing a bigger showcase.
I hope we can get a lot more from this team soon.
This year, The Chattanooga Film Festival runs from June 21st through 28th (June 21st – 23rd In-Person, and June 21st-28th Virtually).