As for the now-teenage Wilson, he’s puzzled. Just when he thinks life will continue to be rough, Monster recounts something that foreshadows even more trouble to come. Honestly, I think Barnett has created a great proof of concept that could turn this short into a feature film. I want to know more about its mythology, and I’d love to see more from this multitalented actor turned writer and director.
I don’t see this film as a vanity project at all. Instead, it showcases Barnett’s ability to create thoughtful dialogue. One such telling moment is when the monster explains why some kids have imaginary friends. There’s careful world-building woven into the short six-minute runtime, and when I think back to it, it all makes sense!
Plus, this monster is wonderfully delirious in a Deadpool style of way. That hey, bub gotta do what’s right just works!
When things go awry, which I won’t spoil, that’s when I was howling with laughter! Apparently, Monster thinks he can simply walk out the front door, but oh boy, the sounds heard and shock from the boy’s face says it all. I honestly wanted to see more than just the single set at this point, but knew that would not happen.
As for the consequences? All that teasing and a question of, “Willlson, what was that?” really demanfs a follow-up! I want to see how chapter two plays out because I feel a movie can be made exploring it better than other films about imaginary friends who happen to be “evil.” And yes, I’m deliberately being vague so I don’t spoil what the monster did to the kid’s family.
4 Stars Out of Five