About the Director

Maurice Smith is an independent filmmaker recognized for his bold, atmospheric short films that often explore human psychology, compulsion, and moral consequence. Working primarily in low-budget and anthology formats, Smith focuses on intense character-driven storytelling, blending suspense, horror, and supernatural undertones. His work emphasizes mood, psychological tension, and narrative unpredictability, earning him a reputation for provocative and daring independent cinema.

Film Synopsis

Dead Positive is a 30-minute short that tells the story of Julia, a young woman trapped by her own compulsions and unable to escape the consequences of her actions. The narrative explores themes of obsession, guilt, and mortality, unfolding in a tense, claustrophobic atmosphere. The cast, including Ruth Curtis as Julia, Lorie-Lanie Shanks as Louise, and Sophie Townsend as the titular dead woman, brings depth and nuance to a story steeped in psychological horror. Through careful pacing and suspenseful storytelling, the film examines the dark aspects of human desire and the inevitability of facing one’s choices.

Director’s Vision

Maurice Smith’s creative vision is evident in the film’s design. He sought to create an intimate, unsettling exploration of human compulsion, emphasizing the inescapable consequences of desire and obsession. Using a tightly focused narrative and atmospheric visuals, Smith intended to immerse viewers in Julia’s psychological struggle, combining horror and thriller elements to provoke reflection on moral and personal accountability.

Awards & Recognition

Global Distribution: Despite its very low budget, the film was released on multiple streaming platforms, including Amazon Prime Video and Tubi, reaching a global audience.

Independent Film Recognition: The film is often cited as a key example of Smith's prolific work in the independent film scene, demonstrating his ability to produce multiple feature-length and short films per year.

Critical Mention: Reviewers have acknowledged the film's "ambitious" nature and "original premise," even while noting the constraints of its ultra-low-budget production quality.