Short Film Review: João Dall’Stella – ‘Steam’

With João Dall’Stella’s “Steam”, the horror lies in the journey. This 15-minute misadventure through the bathhouse at first seems like a one that will end in heartbreak for our young protagonist; and that initial impression isn’t far from the truth. Thomas and his boyfriend have a ‘cheat night’ that only one of them is really into. What follows is an awkward stare and unwanted vulnerability on Thomas’ part.

The ultimate reveal of the antagonist is not a shocking one, in fact, it seems almost so obvious that you question if it could be someone else instead. But what is great about this is that it is, (in my opinion), the least interesting part of this short film. What is more interesting is the fact that Thomas agreed to go to a bathhouse and have a cheat night with his boyfriend. 

It is just about every person’s fear that they make themselves vulnerable for a partner, and then have that vulnerability become their downfall. Such was the case in this film. Thomas makes himself (quite literally) vulnerable by being exposed in a bathhouse that he didn’t seem to have much interest in being in. What follows is the physical manifestation of his feelings, feelings that mirrored his state of undress. 

The acting in this film, while a bit campy, completely mirrors the experiences of many who have gone to bathhouses (that is, you can tell that this was made by someone who has some knowledge of this experience). 

Overall, this is definitely a watch that I don’t regret spending time on, and I definitely look forward to more of João Dall’Stella’s work.