A newly released fan film titled The Trapper has captured the essence of the popular horror game Dead by Daylight. Created by filmmaker Jared Cline, the 17-minute short immerses viewers in the chilling atmosphere of the game, which pits one Killer against four Survivors in a harrowing struggle for survival. The film highlights the intricate details and gameplay mechanics that have made Dead by Daylight a staple in the gaming community since its release in June 2016.
The premise of Dead by Daylight revolves around Survivors attempting to escape while the Killer seeks to capture them, ultimately sacrificing them to a malevolent entity known as the Entity. Since its inception, the game has expanded its roster to include notable horror icons such as Michael Myers from the Halloween series and Ghostface from Scream. The vibrant community surrounding the game has led to various media adaptations, including animated shorts and spin-off games that delve deeper into its lore.
Cline’s film stands out by not merely summarizing the Dead by Daylight experience but by celebrating what makes it unique. The film follows the original Killer, known as The Trapper, whose imposing figure is reminiscent of the game’s key art. Viewers are immediately immersed in the familiar world as Cline incorporates recognizable elements, from the way the Survivor Dwight (portrayed by Eric Hanson) nervously bites his nails to the iconic sound of a bear trap snapping shut.
Expertly Crafted Horror Experience
The film effectively conveys the game’s mechanics through visual storytelling. For instance, it illustrates that this is Claudette‘s (played by Nikki Dixon) first encounter with the Killer. As she navigates the treacherous landscape, she turns to her teammate Meg (played by Crystal Cook) for guidance, mimicking the game’s tutorial style. The use of a flashlight to stun The Trapper, along with references to health kits used by Survivors, showcases Cline’s attention to detail.
A chilling moment occurs when the film captures the essence of fear associated with the meat hook, an iconic element of the game. Cline delivers a striking close-up shot that amplifies the suspense, ensuring that viewers experience the same dread felt by players when facing the Killer.
Beyond its narrative and thematic accomplishments, The Trapper is visually impressive. Cline employs expert lighting and cinematography to enhance the film’s horror elements, balancing close-up shots of the characters with wider views of the desolate environment. The effectiveness of the film lies in its ability to evoke the game’s atmosphere while maintaining a cinematic quality.
A Love Letter to Fans
For dedicated fans of Dead by Daylight, The Trapper serves as a heartfelt tribute that encapsulates the game’s spirit. With meticulous attention to detail and a clear understanding of the source material, Cline has created a piece that resonates deeply with the community.
The film is currently available for viewing on YouTube and has gained recognition as part of Polygon‘s annual Halloween Countdown, which showcases the best horror-themed content to enjoy during the season. This short film not only highlights the creativity of fans but also reaffirms the enduring appeal of Dead by Daylight within the broader landscape of horror entertainment.
