O Negative is a 2015 Canadian short horror film directed by Steven McCarthy.[1] It stars McCarthy and Alyx Melone, who also co-wrote the script with McCarthy. The film centres on a man driving through the night, seeking shelter and sustenance for his girlfriend, who is revealed to be a vampire dependent on human blood.[2]
A man (McCarthy) drives late at night with his girlfriend (Melone) asleep in the passenger seat. She appears pale and unwell. They search for a place to stay, eventually finding a remote motel. Once inside, the man's desperation becomes clear as he tries to care for the woman, whose illness is revealed to be a deep craving for human blood, identifying her as a vampire. The narrative explores the dynamic of their relationship under the strain of her addiction-like need.
Critics noted the film uses the vampire trope as a potential metaphor for addiction, codependency, and the extreme lengths one might go to for love within a relationship burdened by a destructive force.[1][2]
Production
The film was produced by McCarthy alongside Tony Elliott, Sarah Lazarovic, and Jessy Camilleri under the banner Candles Are For Burning.[3]Stéphane Lafleur, known primarily as a director, served as the film's editor.[1] Cabot McNenly was the cinematographer.[1]
Release and reception
O Negative premiered at the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival on September 10, 2015.[4] It received positive attention for its atmospheric visuals, minimalist storytelling, and the performances of McCarthy and Melone.[1][2]
In December 2015, the film was named to TIFF's annual year-end Canada's Top Ten list for short films.[5] The film was later featured online by Short of the Week in October 2016.[1]
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