DIRECTOR
James Watjen
RUNTIME
5 Minutes
COUNTRY
USA
SYNOPSIS
In 'The D Word,' a severely mentally distressed man, rejected by his wife, spirals into an affair, grappling with his fractured sanity. As he navigates the complexities of acceptance and rejection, his subconscious connection to Frankenstein's monster emerges, symbolized by the haunting mask he carries, blurring the line between fractured relationships and the monstrous echoes within.
DIRECTOR STATEMENT
"The D Word" is a short horror film that delves into the haunting intersection of untreated mental health issues and the emotional turmoil of divorce. Drawing inspiration from Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, the divorcing wife, unseen yet omnipresent, serves as the embodiment of societal rejection akin to the townspeople in the legendary tale. Our main character, the husband, grapples with the inexplicable rejection, descending into a mental abyss.
The film pays homage to Frankenstein's monster through the character dynamics, mirroring the misunderstood creature's plight. The deceased mistress symbolizes the fragile acceptance akin to the little girl in Shelley's tale, revealing a tragic twist as she becomes both the solace and demise of our protagonist. Easter eggs scattered throughout the film connect with the Frankenstein narrative, adding layers of depth for astute viewers.
The pancakes serve as a poignant metaphor, symbolizing the intricate bond between the crazed stranger and the mistress. As pancakes require time to create and allow for a slow burn, they mirror the gradual unraveling of the story, emphasizing the intricate and delicate nature of the characters' connections. "The D Word" invites viewers to explore the chilling shadows of mental health, divorce, and the echoes of a timeless literary masterpiece.
DIRECTOR BIO
James Watjen is a 39 year passionate and ambitious filmmaker. Eager to encourage creativity amongst hos three children, James began to self-study filmmaking and filming with his oldest son. This personal journey to learn and foster creativity continues with every film created.
CAST and CREW
Writer/Director - James Watjen
Poster Art - Juan Ortiz
Sound Design - James Watjen
CAST
Chester Qualkenbush - Stranger
Meaghan Watjen - Mistress
James Watjen - Husband