Dancing On My Own

Director - David E. Teixeira (Final Gasp, Stream)

Starring - David E. Teixeira

Release Date - 2025

Genre - Horror

Format - Streaming (Online Screener)

Rating (out of 5):

     I get asked to review a lot of movies especially during the Halloween season.  I never know what these films are going to be about or even if I will like them.  I do love indie horror and often view watching them as an experience.  Even if I don't like the film, I still enjoy seeing someone's hard work and passion that went into the project.  A few weeks back I was asked to review a new short from David Teixeira.  I had reviewed several of his films previously and was looking forward to it but I wasn't able to squeeze it in at the time because of the hectic Halloween schedule I had placed on myself.  However, once the dust had cleared from my month long horror binge I was able to finally check out Dancing On My Own.  I want to thank David for sending this one along for review and apologize for it taking so long to review.

     The film follows a man that is alone going through his day doing typical tasks like making breakfast, reading, smoking and so on.  However, these tasks become much more daunting than they are due to mental health issues and other psychological dilemmas

     When David hit me up to review Dancing On My Own he explained that the film wasn't necessarily a horror film but more of an experimental psychological short.  That is a perfect description of the film and while I don't care for most experimental films I've seen, this one was done exceptionally well.  The acting in this one is not your typical acting which is hard to judge in that regard.  The film features director David Teixeira as he does his day to day tasks before crippling anxiety and other mental issues take hold.  Voices and other forms of paranoia creep in makes the most simple of tasks feel more daunting.  He does a phenomenal job in what I can only assume is an extremely personal role.  The story for this one is short and simple but will have a great impact on many of the viewers that struggle with mental health issues.  I've been there and understand how something as simple as making toast can turn into a crisis when struggling mentally.  The short doesn't over stay it's welcome and while it is experimental, it isn't overly complicated.  Finally, those looking for a bloodbath will be very disappointed.  It's a very story focused short with no room for the red stuff.  Overall, Dancing On My Own is a very powerful and passionate short from filmmaker David E. Teixeira.  This film is very personal and I can see a lot of genre fans who suffer from mental illness will find comfort in this one after connecting with the protagonist.  I highly recommend it.