The Whisper 2: Natural Connection

Wow! I have to hand it to these guys; they surely know how to make good short horror films. As this is a continuation of Whisper (2023) which I really enjoyed and reviewed, it is only prudent that I review this little golden gem of filmmaking. I appreciate the way this seamlessly segways from The Whisper, into this film. The story carries on, but from the POV of Maggie who is trying to find her friend Sophie, who went missing in the first film.

It is great to see some familiar faces. I have to commend the acting; I can tell the cast worked hard to make this a successful short film. Simona Rose who plays Maggie; her acting skills are phenomenal! That accent, which of course is authentic, is gorgeous! It was also a wonderful and delightful surprise to see the esteemed filmmaker Phil Herman playing a vital role as one of the missing people, Todd Waterston. The film kicks off with Todd walking through the bush, talking to his friend David Abney (played by Oktober Layne) on the phone. When Todd doesn't show up at their guys night, he is reported missing. Though we the viewer know what has happened to Todd, so I won't spoil it. He has the infamous book in his hands that interested Sophie in the first film. This is a great introduction, before we delve into the story.

A news report comes on the TV as we come to the next scene, with reporter Simon Peterson (played by Rudy Ledbetter) reporting on the strange disappearance of author Todd Waterston. He also talks about other people who have gone missing in the same area. Here we have some theories revealed in the broadcast, could they have met their fate at the hands of a serial kidnapper lurking in Bonnivar park? Or is it a case of something paranormal occurring? I love how this adds layering and texture to the overall plot and the storyline. This is great for adding the element of mystery and intrigue to keep the viewer wanting more! The interview with Todd's friend David gives this a very authentic feel.

Then we nicely transition into the next scene, where we are introduced to Maggie and her friend Lucy (played by Georgia Vodenicharova) as they realise their friend Sophie is in the same park where the reporter had just discussed the mysterious disappearance of Todd, on the TV. This prompts Maggie to go and find her friend. Using messages from Sophie she had received on her cell phone, Maggie finds herself at Bonnivar park. We see missing persons posters stuck to trees, and it's great to see some familiar faces, very cool. A very good scene the connects both the films, is that horrifying abandoned building, in which something horrendous occurs which takes the tone of the film to a whole other level of horror. Like the bone chilling whispers from the previous film, they are there again, pulling Maggie in, drawing her into its lair. What happens at the end is truly terrifying! That last image will stay in your head for a while.

Overall, the characters are well developed, with each actor taking their roles seriously. The natural environmental settings are great, giving the viewer a false sense of security. How can anything terrible happen considering the surroundings are so picturesque, is a very good juxtaposition. Sound effects are top notch, excellent, and it really digs into the brain, the whispers, demonic voices, a haunting atmosphere is created. The special effects are used appropriately and effectively. I like the way the moods and tones seem to sway, like we are going on a ride! The plot is well thought out - I am hoping there will be more in this series! And with a sound storyline to push the narrative across, and managing to hold on to the mystery, suspense and tension keeps the viewer super interested. I was gripped from the moment Phil Herman appeared. Don't expect a slasher, this is more in line with a supernatural thriller, with an intricately crafted storyline. Cinematography is good, as well as the artful touches here and there. I can see that a lot of work went into the making of this film. It's this type of community spirit that you will only find in the Indie film scene. Another fantastic short film from Miroslav Petkov and his team. I recommend this to anyone wanting to see another golden nugget of filmmaking in the independent realm. You won't be disappointed!

Reviewed by Del Gibson.

"I was thoroughly impressed with how Director Miroslav Petkov seamlessly incorporated my scenes into The Whisper 2. The way the inserts blended with the rest of the film was nothing short of flawless. I particularly enjoyed the atmospheric details, such as the tree with the mysterious symbol and the haunting, abandoned building.

The performances were top-notch, with Simone Rose, Rudy Ledbetter, Georgia Vodenicharova, and Oktober Layne delivering standout moments. Special mention goes to Alicia Hinson, whose chilling voice brought The Whisper to life in an eerie and captivating way.

When I first agreed to do my scene, I thought it was cool but couldn't quite picture how it would all come together. But now, after seeing the final product, I'm blown away. In just 13 minutes, this short story feels like a full-length film in its depth and execution. I'm incredibly proud to be part of The Whisper 2 and to have played such a significant role in this remarkable project."

A solid short that leaves you wanting to see what happens next. The film is shot well and spins a spooky tale.

Miroslave Petkov did a great job with this little gem. The scenes are set up well and the actors do a good job. The acting in this film is solid. All the actors do a good job with their parts.

Most of the film centers around some strange disappearances, a weird symbol, and a mysterious abandoned building.

The ending of film, which is well done, left me wanting to see what happens next. I do hope they make a follow up film and pick up where this short film ends.

This is a well-made short film that is well worth your time. Give it a watch.