1. Plot Summary

Dr. Gabrielle Grant, a child psychologist, takes on a young, wheelchair-bound boy with a violent past. As she delves deeper into his therapy, she discovers his “imaginary friends” aren’t imaginary—they’re malevolent manifestations with violent tendencies. The setting—a quiet therapy room—quickly transforms into a claustrophobic battleground between caregiver and cursed innocence.

2. Notable Elements

• Strong Premise: The concept of benign “imaginary friends” turning demonic provides a chilling twist on childhood fears. Early book-like illustrations by the boy set a visually haunting tone.

• Performance: Julianna Drajkó delivers a composed yet unsteady portrayal of a professional unraveling as the supernatural presence grows.

• Sound & Atmosphere: The sound design accentuates quiet tension—creaking floors, whispered voices—keeping viewers alert to unseen threats.

• Pace & Impact: In just 11 minutes, the film builds steadily, leading to a visceral climax that packs a punch—though some may find the resolution abrupt.

3. Themes and Messages

“Dual” touches on the darkness hidden in innocence—how unresolved trauma can manifest dangerously. It explores the limits of professional intervention and the perils of tampering with a child’s psyche. While not holiday-related, the film resonates with themes of protection and purity, subverted through horror.

4. Personal Impressions

Strengths:

• A refreshing take on supernatural horror using minimal cast and setting.

• Clever use of visuals—especially the boy’s drawings—to foreshadow the escalating dread.

• Effective scares through suggestion rather than gore.

Weaknesses:

• At just 11 minutes, the narrative feels slightly rushed; character motivations remain lightly sketched.

• Some performances, particularly among supporting actors, lack emotional depth compared to the lead.

5. Audience Recommendations

✔ For fans of psychological supernatural shorts—if you enjoyed segments from anthologies like Galaxy of Horrors.
✔ For horror lovers with limited time—the short’s tight structure and intensity offer quick satisfaction.
🚫 Not recommended for viewers wanting deep character arcs or slow-burn storytelling; it’s more about atmosphere than emotional exploration.

6. Conclusion & Rating

“Dual” is a compact but tightly executed supernatural horror that turns childhood innocence into something sinister. It stands out for its minimalism and effective tension, even if the brevity leaves you wanting more.
Final Verdict: A gripping bite-sized horror treat—brief, potent, and unsettling.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5 stars)