I swear I’ve said this a hundred times already, but as much shit as we give jump scares, they really do work in a short film format. Most short films use jump scares to amplify the set-up, and because we get to the third act so quickly, it’s a great tool to keep the audience on edge. Chris Cronin’s short, Oscar’s Bell, nails that balance of jump scares and slow-burning tension, and the payoff absolutely rips.

Duncan and his dog Oscar have gone on their weekly camping trip into the wilderness together. However, when Duncan looks out into the woods, something else looks back.

Remember, if you want to see more short films like Oscar’s Bell, visit the Short Round!