I'll start by saying that I REALLY enjoy a good horror movie in all its forms. But most people with whom I discuss this topic agree that it's just so difficult to find one that does its job (scare the pants off you) while still being well conceived and well made as a film. So many times it's all about the effects or the star or the gore, usually with an anemic and ridiculous script to complete the ensemble.
That said, I can honestly say that I was thoroughly impressed with "The Muse" on all of these points and more. Even though the running time is less than an hour Taylor Grant takes us through an arc of emotion so complete and compelling it is virtually impossible to come away unaffected by this picture. He creates fully dimensional characters with whom the audience easily identifies. Then as all good writers do, once the investment is made, off come the brakes and what we think is reality begins to disintegrate around us with a disturbing similarity to every nightmare and ghost story we've ever experienced.
Grant understands that the best horror films are only really "half written" by the author and completed by his audience in their own minds. Once committed we quickly fill any negative space with our own worst fears and psychoses and then commence to squirm and secretly beg for mercy that never comes. Sort of like being strapped to your own corpse while riding a roller coaster. You are almost certain these moments will be your (sanity's) last, but you just...can't...look away.
I gave the film an 8 out of 10 only because I wanted it to last longer so I could've completely emptied my bladder and I also want to give Grant something to shoot for on his next endeavor. The production value is fantastic considering that this was not a film with a large budget. The exposition is clear and all the necessary elements in place, including an ending that will have you dialing Mommy's phone number before the credits are over. All things considered "The Muse" is a well crafted mental and sensory meal of emotion and terror that is sure to be one you'll want to experience again...if of course...you can handle it.