Usually, when a film is written by, directed by, and starring the same person, alarm bells can go off, warning that you’re about to watch a vanity project. Cameron Francis takes on all those roles in Cover, but the assured, low-key presentation allows for a brooding, engaging watch.

Trevor (Francis) is a quiet, paranoid loner who deals in expensive stamps and has to drive across the country to complete a deal for some of the most precious items he has. Against his better judgment, he agrees to take Macy (Katherine Lozon) along with him. She tells him she’s running from an abusive relationship. It takes quite a while for Macy to break Trevor’s icy exterior and start a conversation, and some deep secrets are shared.

There’s very little in the way of flashy action; instead, Francis allows for a moody development of the story. By the time we get to the reason for Trevor’s insular persona, we’re fully on board with the characters. They succeed in making us not actually like them, and we certainly don’t trust them. As an actor, Francis is restrained in his delivery, which works perfectly for the character, and Lozon (in her first feature role) holds her own as Macy.

While the destination the plot takes may not be new, it’s confidently directed (impressive since it’s Francis’ first feature) and is always engaging. It covers several serious themes such as loss, guilt, and revenge in an often unflashy fashion, which explodes with violence towards the climax.

COVER screened at FrightFest on August 23rd.