Okay, now that I’ve seen this short film in its entirety, I can see why it’s picking up awards at every film festival around the country. Shot under D.I.Y. or Die Productions and The Full Half, The Babysitter Murders: Timing’s Off feels akin to something that belongs in the Creepshow reboot. If you count Le Manoir du Diable (1896) as the first horror film ever made, then the genre has been around for almost 130 years. It’s hard to find something truly original because most filmmakers just put variants on pre-existing plots. The Babysitter Murders: Timing’s Off – which I’m going to style as just Timing’s Off – is completely unique and bends the genres of horror, scifi and drama into an extremely cohesive nine-minute movie. It’s creative, intuitive and grabs your attention from the very first shot. It follows a young babysitter who finds the tedious job turned upside down when time starts fluctuating one night. What is the cause of the rip in reality and why is it affecting only her? You’ll need to watch this film at a festival near you to get those answers… because I don’t post spoilers!
Timing’s Off is directed by Orin Black based on the screenplay he wrote with Gus Riley. It was produced by Orin Black with Jesse Wekerle and Billy Nawrocki. Wekerle also served as cinematographer with Nawrocki leading the editing department. Elliot Frances Flynn, Giancarlo Gentile, Jake Williamson, Andre Walker and Billy Nawrocki star. There’s so many other people I’d like to mention in this review, because Timing’s Off is absolutely fantastic and I thoroughly enjoyed my viewing, but there’s not enough space to highlight all the players. Just know I applaud all your efforts, whether you’re named here or not. Timing’s Off is virtually perfect, and that’s because of every single cast/crew member. My biggest compliment, though, is given directly to cinematographer Jesse Wekerle. I’m so, so picky when it comes to picture quality and this short film is flawless in that category. Color, texture, warmth – it’s on point and elevates this title to more than just an indie film.
Other areas I enjoyed include scoring, foley, timing, acting and the special effects – though there isn’t too much gore. Not that this is a title that needs to rely on blood and guts because its heavily story driven by Orin Black. Plus, don’t think The Shining cigarette homage was missed on me! I’m a slut for a good Easter Egg, and I’m a slut for a good sequel. The way this film introduces its killers, The Salazar Twins, is springled in suspense but open to more exploration in the future. A sequel to Timing’s Off is definitely something I’d tune in for. I also really enjoyed that Orin Black’s story wasn’t forced or preachy. You come to understand what’s happening all on your own by the midway point, then get to look for clues and distress as it gallops towards climax. I know as a reviewer I’m supposed to give constructive criticism somewhere, somehow, but honestly The Babysitter Murders: Timing’s Off is scary, suspenseful and sucks you in from the start.
Listen, if Orin Black and his cast/crew were able to craft something this successful on his first run as director, then I cannot wait to see what he accomplishes in the future. I dare you to watch Timing’s Off at a film festival near you. I guarantee you won’t regret it!
Final Score: 10/10
