Vermin (2024): Cast & Ratings
Vermin is a 2024 short horror film directed by Jonah Howell, starring Mackenzie Mazur as Beverly and Kate Thurkle. It runs 12 minutes and was made on a reported $4,000 budget. Its Echo Score is 73/100.
- Echo Score
- 73
- budget
- $4K
- Released
- Runtime
- 12 min
- Director
- Jonah Howell
- Genre
- Horror
- Original language
-
English
- Studio
- Collarts Screen and Media
- Budget
- $4K
- After the credits
- No No extra scene
What Is Vermin About?
The premise of Vermin without spoilers.
Following a devastating accident involving her housemate, a pacifist finds herself compelled to protect them both. A mysterious creature begins to stalk their apartment after dark, forcing her to confront her own beliefs as she fights for survival. Nature's power and the will to protect those you care for are tested in this tense and unsettling fight.
Vermin Themes & Keywords
· 27 tags- spider
- french horror
- giant spider
- monster horror
- european horror
- one word title
- spider attack
- death
- dog
- dog killed
- vivarium
- spiderweb
+15 more Show fewer
- shoebox
- building destruction
- grindhouse film
- building
- apartment
- shoes
- police
- parking garage
- underground parking garage
- blood
- shoe box
- shoe business
- new shoes
- staircase
- brother sister conflict
Vermin Cast & Characters
Mackenzie Mazur leads the cast as Beverly, with Kate Thurkle as Charlie. Directed by Jonah Howell.
- Director Jonah Howell
- Mackenzie Mazur as Beverly
- Kate Thurkle as Charlie
Vermin Reviews & Ratings
Our Echo Score gives it 73/100, strongest in art & craft (92) and weakest in story & flow (55).
Vermin Echo Score Breakdown
Vermin delivers a visually striking horror experience that resonates with fans of claustrophobic creature features. Reviewers commend the film’s atmospheric direction, effective lighting, and realistic spider effects, which together create a tense sensory backdrop. However, criticism centers on an uneven narrative, with plot holes, rushed pacing, and character decisions that undermine engagement. While the scares sustain interest on a first viewing, the unresolved third act and thin character arcs limit its replay value, resulting in a mixed but moderately positive overall impression.
Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.
- Art & Craft 92
From an artistic standpoint, Vermin excels in direction and cinematography, employing tight framing and chiaroscuro lighting that amplify the claustrophobic setting. The production design convincingly renders a decaying Parisian tower, and the practical spider effects demonstrate meticulous craftsmanship. While a few reviewers note occasional pacing interruptions, the visual execution remains a standout strength.
- Character & Emotion 70
Character work in Vermin is uneven; several reviewers praise the leads for delivering nuanced, emotionally resonant performances that foster audience empathy. Conversely, many highlight implausible choices and thin backstories, describing the protagonists as stereotypical and unrelatable. This dichotomy results in a mixed assessment of the film’s acting and character depth.
- Story & Flow 55
The narrative structure of Vermin engages viewers during its first hour with a coherent setup and escalating tension, yet the third act collapses into hurried resolutions and implausible spider proliferation. Critics point to inconsistent pacing, repetitive exposition, and unresolved plot threads that diminish overall coherence. Consequently, the story receives a moderate rating reflecting its initial promise and later shortcomings.
- Sensory Experience 84
Vermins sensory elements are largely effective; the score and ambient sound reinforce the oppressive atmosphere, while the visual style utilizes gritty textures and a muted palette to accentuate decay. Spider CGI and practical effects are praised for realism, though some reviewers note unrealistic growth speeds. Overall, the auditory and visual components substantially enhance the horror experience.
- Rewatch Factor 65
Rewatch potential for Vermin is moderate; the effective scares and immersive setting encourage at least one additional viewing for genre enthusiasts. However, the narrative’s weak third act and repetitive character choices reduce long‑term appeal, leading many viewers to consider the film enjoyable once but not compelling enough for frequent repeats.
Seen Vermin?
Movies Like Vermin
Films with a similar story, tone or audience, including Vivarium, Neighbor and Kingdom of the Spiders.
Vermin FAQ: Cast, Runtime & Release Date
Runtime, release date, director, cast, budget and post-credit scenes of Vermin, each answered in a sentence.
How long is Vermin?
Vermin runs 12 minutes.
When was Vermin released?
Vermin was released on February 28, 2024.
Who directed Vermin?
Vermin was directed by Jonah Howell.
Who is in the cast of Vermin?
Vermin stars Mackenzie Mazur as Beverly and Kate Thurkle as Charlie.
What was the budget of Vermin?
Vermin had a reported budget of $4,000.
Does Vermin have a post-credit scene?
No. Vermin has no extra scene during or after the credits.
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