Gray Matter (A Creepshow short on SHUDDER)

Genre: Horror
Rating: TV-MA (M)
Warnings: Some Gore, Body Horror

While not particularly scary, it is an intriguing story that delivers a couple of surprises. There's a theme of alcoholism and toxic masculinity; the message is that the dad's refusal to deal with his emotions, as "real men don't cry", and drinking too much beer are the transgressions that cause his problems.

Named for Stephen King short story it's based on, there isn't a clear colour or brain reference in the story, but it does hint towards the first reveal and the dawning horror of the ending. Its value as an adaption depends on the short story, but as a stand alone horror short it is great.

Atmospheric and creepy, the set design and camera work are brilliant. The cuts between two concurrent situations and the boy's confession story playing out really help to build suspense. Missing proper jump scares or, at least for me, a sense of fear for the viewer, this falls into the thriller/slasher school of horror. Disgust, foreboding and disturbed are the emotions this short evokes. If you hate mould, slime and either of those on people, this will creep you out too.