If you’re a fan of psychological horror with a side of slasher tension, Pure Evil is the indie short you didn’t know you needed. Written and directed by Walter J. Buck, this pilot episode for his upcoming horror series doesn’t just flirt with darkness…it dives headfirst into it.
Set on Halloween Eve in the eerie town of Purity County, Pure Evil kicks off with a seemingly harmless class reunion that quickly spirals into chaos. What starts with nervous small talk, awkward encounters, and the usual high school baggage unravels into something far more sinister. Buck masterfully layers each scene with creeping tension, pulling viewers into a world where reality blurs and unresolved trauma bubbles dangerously close to the surface.
At the heart of the story is Dereak Thomas, a quiet, socially anxious character played by actor Leonard Freeny. You may recognize Freeny from films including Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Broken Road, and others. From the moment he steps into the party, you’re left questioning if he’s simply an outsider… or something much darker. His chemistry with Brynna Hower, who plays Stacy Ellis, adds emotional depth and keeps you guessing about everyone’s true intentions. Actress Aliah Marshall as Deseray also shines, especially as things begin to unravel.
No shortcuts with this film
The film doesn’t take shortcuts with its atmosphere. Moody lighting, close-quarter camerawork, and tight, jarring silences all build a sense of dread that lingers. There’s no overuse of gore or cheap jump scares here. It’s just a slow, creeping horror that slips under your skin and stays there.
Behind the scenes, Pure Evil boasts a solid creative team. Producers Patrick Reidy, Jason R. Johnston, Ambient Hour Productions, and Third Fable Productions helped bring Buck’s dark vision to life. Jedi Bishop serves as assistant director and production manager, ensuring the set runs smoothly while keeping the eerie tone intact throughout. Casting director Kaleisha Walter deserves credit for assembling a cast that feels authentic. Every performance brings something real to the tension.
Sound design and score are other standouts. With an original score engineered and mixed by John Pineiro and performed by Jenna Kopitske, the music adds an ominous undercurrent that intensifies as the film progresses. Even the local radio broadcast, voiced memorably by Jason R. Johnston and Sheila Ann Smith as Jaybird and Sasha, brings both a nostalgic and chilling tone that bookends the story perfectly.
What makes Pure Evil especially compelling is its restraint. Walter J. Buck gives us just enough to make us uncomfortable and curious, but not enough to feel safe. The story wraps with more questions than answers, leaving viewers unnerved and hungry for the next episode.
This is horror that respects its audience. It’s not about shock value or gore for gore’s sake. It’s about dread that crawls into your mind and stays there long after the credits roll.
My final verdict
Pure Evil is a haunting, well-written introduction to what could become one of indie horror’s standout series. With its smart direction, solid performances, and disturbing atmosphere, it’s one to watch, and Walter J. Buck is a filmmaker that horror lovers should keep their eyes on.
You can watch Pure Evil on YouTube:
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