“Milk & Serial” is a 2024 indie film that takes amateur to the next level. Filmed on a budget of $800, the production is the brainchild of filmmaker Curry Barker and released exclusively on his sketch YouTube channel ‘that’s a bad idea.’
The found footage styled movie came to me as a suggestion on a list of unknown horror gems. While its not an all-time great on par with “Paranormal Activity” or “The Blair Witch Project,” “Milk & Serial” is an enjoyable and compelling watch.
YouTubers
Seven (Cooper Tomlinson) and Milk (Curry Barker) run a YouTube channel that features elaborate pranks. The opening testimonials reveal that Seven is orchestrating a scheme to be played out at Milk’s upcoming birthday party. The start of the movie details the extreme measures going into the hoax. We’re watching, so we know something wrong is going to happen. Exactly what remains to be seen.
Curry Barker wrote and directed the film, and stars as Milk. He’s a peculiar fellow by aesthetics alone, which is a compliment. As an actor, Barker is passable, if not above average in the performance. He’s on screen for the bulk of the piece, which is a good thing as he has the best acting chops of the bunch.
The character of Milk comes off as an average guy when the story starts. He likes pranks and is comfortable in front of the camera. Milk has a close-knit group of friends and is upset when an outsider shows up to the party. Its relatable. Through a clever shift in continuity, we get to witness the dark side Milk is hiding. The film appears light but there’s plenty of blood, gore, and disturbing images.
Curry Barker
As the writer, Barker’s story goes from one elaborate prank to another leaving the viewer in a state of uncertainty as to who or what we should believe. As a director, Barker makes the most out of $800 and a 62-minute run time.
Cooper Tomlinson and Curry Barker have a good on-screen relationship. They are friends and YouTube creators in real life, and it shows in the movie. The rest of the cast is filled in with real-life friends of the duo. No one is wining any awards but that’s okay.
Box Office Blockbusters have been challenged by Netflix, Amazon, and other streaming services. “Milk & Serial” may be a pioneer in YouTube films that get around the need for studio support by dropping for free—and including ads.
The platform is a way for artists in film to showcase their work. The fans will determine how good it is by how often it gets viewed. Word of mouth has spread this one around thus far, and the meager investment seems to have paid off well.
I recommend “Milk & Serial” to any horror fan. Its fun, simple, and not much of a time commitment. It can be watched at the link below. I’m sure Martin Scorsese is searing.
Watch Milk & Serial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbzGQ1lszv4
