“Model Citizen” – Obsession Spirals Out Of Control – Horror Short Review

“Love me like my demons do.”

~ Akif Kichloo

A winning smile and an ordinary request are the unwitting catalysts for a dark obsession. The short film, “Model Citizen” by writer and director, Rachael Dahl takes an unflinching look at stalking and gender violence playing now on Alter’s YouTube channel.  

Do you have a story waiting to be told? Submit your own script to the next Killer Shorts Horror Short Screenplay Competition.  

The Plot

The film opens on a bright, sunny day. White picket fences, a father and son playing catch, a friendly postman, Harold, greeting neighbors along his route. The scene is unsettlingly “perfect” and reminiscent of the 1950s “Leave It To Beaver” television show complete with music of that era in the background. The story quickly focuses on the civil servant as he walks to a dented mailbox. Harold fumbles to open the metal box. A pretty blond pregnant woman, Ms. Hubbard, greets him. Harold’s eyes study her. She politely asks that he take a package from her home that is too heavy for her to handle in her condition.

Harold focuses on her smile and an innocuous statement Ms. Hubbard makes while retrieving the package – she wishes she had a man handy with a hammer. This throwaway sentiment sparks Harold’s obsession with her. He believes.…To read the entire blog, head to Killer Shorts Reviews.