Cool Horror Video: Stop-motion monster auditions for work in Rebooted

Last Updated on July 30, 2021

While CGI is all the rage when it comes to rendering monsters in film (look no further than the CGI-laden finale of IT: CHAPTER II), it's easy to miss the simplicity, creativity, and personality of practical effects from bygone eras, whether it be animatronics, rubber suits, or – in the case of this short – stop motion.

REBOOTED taps into that nostalgia as we follow a stop-motion skeleton from a Ray Harryhausen-esque epic from the '50s auditioning for monster roles in modern films – alongside CG and mocap creatures – and getting frustrated with the constant rejection. However, the film is surprisingly touching and reverent, as well as ultimately holding a nuanced and healthy view on changing norms and the need to embrace the future, while at the same time not forgetting the past.

Here's the official synopsis: 

It’s not easy for a movie-star to age – especially when you’re a stop motion animated skeleton monster. Phil, once a terrifying villain of the silver-screen, struggles to find work in modern Hollywood due to being an out-of-date special effect.

There's also a nifty article talking about the behind-the-scenes making of the short from writer-director Michael Shanks – which is both fascinating and informative – that can be found here.

So what'd you guys think? And what's your favorite creature effect? Sound off below!