“Overdue” filmed at the library
This past October, the library doubled as a spectacularly spooky set for a local short film. “Overdue” was created, shot, and edited in just two days for the Pittsburgh 48 Hour Film Horror Project. It took home Best Film and multiple other awards during the screening ceremony, and will be competing against other winning films from cities around the world at Cannes this spring.
We chatted with Glenn Syska and Christina McKee, the husband-wife duo behind the film, about their process. Responses have been edited for length and clarity.
How did you choose the library as the set?
We live in the area and drive by the library every time we go to the post office or grocery store. I've always loved the look of the building's exterior; it reminds me of a library that would be described in a Stephen King story. Naturally, we thought it would be a great location for a spooky short film.
What are the main elements you relied on to create the eerie atmosphere throughout the film?
We worked to establish an eerie mood in a number of ways. Lighting played a major role; we wanted the room to be dimly lit in order to keep Noah, the actor who plays the villain, in shadow. As the story progresses, the lighting gets gradually darker until it's practically night outside. We shot the film in chronological order so that while it gradually became darker outside, the failing light worked to our advantage.
Music was another huge factor. Pete Guellard composed an eerie score of atmospheric drones to help establish a sense of danger throughout. During Meredith's story about Sarah Thorne's murder, the music builds to an almost shrieking crescendo, hopefully creeping the audience out.
If you had to choose 3 words to describe "Overdue," what would they be?
Vengeful late fees.
Watch “Overdue” on YouTube here. Our very own librarian, Sandy Russell, made a special guest appearance - see if you can spot her!
