Ty Brueilly’s debut film, Shucks, is an ambitious and surreal experience that challenges conventional storytelling through its experimental approach. Originally released in 2017, this black-and-white silent short film has recently gained renewed attention, thanks to the growing popularity of its ever-expanding lore. With ten sequels already released and three more in various stages of production, the Shucks universe has clearly struck a chord with audiences. The latest installment, At a Distance: 7eventh Sirkle, has been making waves on the festival circuit, racking up numerous awards and bringing new eyes to where it all began. Now, Shucks is set to make its Hollywood premiere at the world-famous TCL Chinese Theatre in February—a testament to its enduring appeal.
At its core, Shucks follows a ritualistic man attempting to escape his repetitive existence, only to unknowingly transform into the very thing he consumes. The film’s thematic depth is layered with abstract imagery, allowing for multiple interpretations. While its metaphors may be elusive, the film’s ability to captivate is undeniable.
Brueilly wears many hats in this production, serving as the film’s director, writer, executive producer, cinematographer, editor, composer, art director, costume designer, sound editor, and location manager—his hands-on approach results in a cohesive yet unconventional vision that feels deeply personal. The cast includes Koba Brueilly as P.C. Lee, Megan Brueilly as Mistress Manipulation, Ty Brueilly himself as Sun WuKong, and Austin Rich in a dual role as Steampunk Willie and Shucks. Megan Brueilly’s contributions to set decoration and wardrobe, along with Austin Rich’s stunt work, further enhance the film’s production.
Shucks thrives on its visual storytelling. The cinematography alternates between handheld and tripod shots, leaning heavily on handheld to create a raw, immersive feel. Some outdoor scenes appear overexposed, but rather than detract from the experience, this stylistic choice adds to the film’s otherworldly atmosphere.
The film’s narrative is cryptic yet engaging. It begins with a man moving into a nearly empty house, bringing only a chair and a few belongings. Among these items is a peculiar mask, which looms in the background, building an eerie tension. A mysterious witch-like figure also makes sporadic appearances, reinforcing the film’s dreamlike quality. The protagonist engages in a daily ritual: he prepares corn, feeds it to an unseen animal, and then undergoes a transformation—tying his hair, changing into formal attire, and donning the ominous steampunk mask. The act of watching a surreal television broadcast becomes a nightly compulsion, reminiscent of A Clockwork Orange’s infamous conditioning scenes.
Brueilly’s score plays a crucial role in shaping the film’s atmosphere. The music is both haunting and upbeat, though at times repetitive. However, this looping effect mirrors the film’s themes of ritual and repetition, making it feel intentional rather than redundant.
As Shucks progresses, its imagery grows increasingly unsettling. The Corn Man—a masked figure seemingly representing the protagonist’s transformation—lurks in the shadows, eventually taking over the protagonist’s place. The film plays with time, reversing sequences and layering visuals in a way that suggests an endless cycle. By the end, the protagonist is fully absorbed into the film, watching himself as Corn Man assumes his former role.
While Shucks is undeniably abstract, its hypnotic quality and striking visuals make it a fascinating watch. It feels more akin to an experimental music video than a conventional short film, but that works to its advantage. The lack of dialogue only heightens the film’s ability to draw viewers in through pure visual storytelling.
Though some aspects of Shucks remain enigmatic, that mystery is part of its charm. It doesn’t hold the audience’s hand, instead encouraging personal interpretation. With its Hollywood premiere on the horizon, Shucks is poised to find a whole new audience—one that will undoubtedly be intrigued by its unique vision and eerie execution.
Jessie Hobson