Would you invite a stranger to sleep inside your home? Most parents would say no, and yet countless individuals do exactly that through vacation rental apps. This modern trend has spawned a lucrative side hustle, but it also introduces potential risks. Filmmaker Richard Halpern recognized the inherent horror in this concept and used it as inspiration for his movie, “Suburban Nightmare.” We interviewed Richard to gain insight into the creative process behind this intriguing film.
Richard Halpern: Suburban Nightmare is about a family that is living in tough times who feel the need to rent out an extra room in their home for additional income. Unbeknown to them this character is a dangerous stalker who is pursuing their daughter online from afar.
Richard Halpern: Yes. There have been many stories of death and violence that have occured in rental share communities. If you google Airbnb murder you will see what I mean. It’s also inspired by a situation that happened to me.
I rented an Airbnb in San Diego in a million dollar home and the family had a young mother and father with two toddler daughters. They gave me free access to their home andI was stunned any reasonable parent would allow this. This moment inspired this movie.
Richard Halpern: First as always is to be entertained. Thrilled. Held in suspense. While also questioning how the gig sharing economy can be potentially dangerous.
Richard Halpern: Shooting in pretty much one location. While a family with two children living there.
Richard Halpern: I am inspired by great 70s grindhouse movies that do not have optimistic endings. Like Texas chainsaw massacre or Last House on the Left. I like to be different. Unpredictable. Dark. Also setting up an even more grueling sequel.
Richard Halpern: Because people can relate to it. Connect to it. Most people live their lives in the suburbs. So for them the thriller and realism is close to home.
Richard Halpern: I loved filming the shed scene with the two leads. It was originally set outside but it was raining hail at night. So we needed to change it up. We ran to a local target to by Xmas lights to enhance the scene and the performances were fantastic.
What if we are alone in the universe? This question is at the core of the short film Laniakea. Originally created as a college project by Dima Taran, the film went on to take on a life of its own when it found an audience online with nearly 800,000 views in one year. The beautifully […]
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Sometimes the best stories aren’t the longest, they are the shortest. Short films have perfected the art of telling a captivating story in just a few minutes and animated shorts are some of the most enjoyable short film experiences. Animated short films can take us to new worlds full of human creativity or they can […]
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Most, if not all, children had night terrors growing up. Some would hide under the covers. Others would yell for their parents. Kid-version Jason Ragosta, screenwriter and director, decided to make a deal with his monsters where he would bring them to life through drawing and in exchange they would protect him. Years later, Jason […]
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“There’s always a Filipino somewhere” is a well-known fact, and it’s true even in streaming platforms. Of course we have some right here in Reveel. From the adrenaline-infused streets of Manila to the sun-kissed beaches of Maui, Filipinos offer up their kaleidoscope of stories that resonate with emotional depth, unexpected thrills, and quirky humor. Ready […]
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Superman has been a career-defining role for many actors, dating back to Christopher Reeve’s iconic portrayal. Now, David Corenswet steps into the cape as the latest actor to embody the Man of Steel. But wait, who’s this David guy? Where on Earth (or beyond) did he come from? Get ready because we’re about to take […]
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Are you in the mood for a chillingly good time but not quite ready to dive under the covers at the slightest creak of a floorboard? Then you’re in luck! Our carefully curated selection keeps the thrill without sending the chills down your spine. Prepare to enter the realm of suspense and psychological twists with […]
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Phantom of the Opera meets K-pop? Now that’s a mash-up we didn’t know we needed! “Phantom: The Musical” is coming onto the scene, giving the classic tale a fresh story. This adaptation combines the opera with cinematic elements to create a distinct experience. To better understand this unique production, we reached out to Eddie Aronoff, […]
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In the heart of Los Angeles, where cultures collide and dreams are forged, a young Asian American director is leaving an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape. Hon Hoang, a Vietnamese American artist armed with a psychology degree from UCLA, wields his camera like a poet’s pen, capturing the profound depths of the human experience […]
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Family has a lot of different meanings. It can transcend blood and forge a bond through commitment along with choice. Kenneth R. Frank, a writer and director, delves into this profound concept through his feature film, Family Obligations. With a desire to explore the intricacies of familial obligations, he invites us on a journey of […]
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Oh man, remember that little dude from Life of Pi? The one stranded on that lifeboat with the tiger? Well, let me tell you, that kid is all grown up now and still as talented (if not more!) as he was then. Suraj Sharma, the former child star, is now in his 30s. Let’s catch […]
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