A Killer Debut: Tape 15 Unleashes Experimental Horror

Tape 15, the debut film by student Daniel Redondo San Jose, offers a chilling dive into the twisted mind of a serial killer who records his gruesome methods. But in today’s digital age, where deception is as simple as a click, the film dares to ask: can we really trust everything we see? Through the lens of an unsettling tape it explores the dark intersection between reality and illusion, and it's one eerie ride from start to finish.

Despite being a student project, Tape 15 doesn’t shy away from ambitious storytelling. The film boasts a disturbingly atmospheric vibe, with shadows creeping along the screen like hidden secrets. The experimental approach to visual storytelling is impressive, and it's clear Danny has a creative eye. There’s an undeniable Blair Witch Project energy in the way the film leans into raw, lo-fi aesthetics. However, Tape 15 delivers a more controlled, almost hypnotic portrayal of fear layered with paranoia and unease.

The pacing is another standout feature. Danny wisely avoids the pitfalls of dragging out tension. The film moves briskly, keeping the viewer on edge without overindulging in its own premise. The acting is solid with the characters feeling unnervingly authentic. These are people you feel you could pass on the street—and that’s what makes it so disturbing.

On the flip side, the technical aspects do show the limitations of a first-time production. While the faux-VHS style is a bold choice, it feels at times like a missed opportunity. The aesthetic could have been much stronger with an actual VHS camera instead of simulating the old-school grain and fuzz. Similarly, the sound design feels a bit choppy at times, which occasionally breaks the immersive atmosphere.

Tape 15 has a lot of promise. It's a creative and eerie experiment in storytelling that showcases the early talent of its director. While there are areas for improvement it’s clear that Danny Redondo San Jose has a deep passion for the medium. Much like directors such as Robert Eggers and Ari Aster who made a mark with unsettling atmospheres in their debuts, Danny has planted the seeds for a promising career in horror.