Poster and Trailer for Russell Goldman’s ‘Burn Out’

The trailer for Russell Goldman’s new short film Burn Out, executive produced by Jamie Lee Curtis, has been released, giving audiences a tantalising glimpse into this explosive horror short. Inspired by the body horror style of David Cronenberg, Burn Out will make its world premiere at Dances With Films on June 27, followed by screenings at the Chattanooga Film Festival on June 28 and the Wyoming International Film Festival on July 12.

Goldman, who drew inspiration from his experiences with post-concussive syndrome, crafted a narrative about the extreme lengths people go to in breakneck work environments. The trailer offers glimpses of protagonist Virgil, played by Everett Osborne, experiencing intense anguish and being set on fire, hinting at the intense and visceral nature of the film.

The film, set in the abandoned Quibi offices, features a mix of practical effects, VFX, and pyrotechnics to create its unique visual style. “I wanted to create some bizarre and spectacular things people might not have seen before. It was my first time working with pyrotechnics, VFX animation, practical SFX, or making a mold of an actor’s head that we could set on fire,” said Goldman. The cast includes Tommie Earl Jenkins and Everett Osborne, whose performances anchor the film’s absurd and terrifying elements in a relatable reality.

“Burn Out is a gonzo, high-octane horror story inspired by my experiences with all-consuming bosses. I wanted to make a film about how we push ourselves in breakneck work environments and make disastrous compromises with our bodies and minds. Nothing is scarier (or more absurd) than what we can do to ourselves,” Goldman explained.

Goldman, originally from Virginia, is known for his short films Return to Sender and Closing Time, and the upcoming feature film adaptation of Return to Sender. He also co-wrote the Blumhouse graphic novel Mother Nature with Jamie Lee Curtis. His diverse background and unique experiences bring a fresh perspective to the horror genre, making Burn Out a highly anticipated release.

Watch the exclusive trailer for Burn Out now and prepare for its premiere at Dances With Films on June 27. For more information, visit the official IMDb page and follow updates on Facebook.

Burn Out teaser