House hunting is terrifying enough without supernatural interference, but Conveyance—a sharp and engaging short film from writer-director Gemma Creagh—adds an extra layer of dread to the process. This well-crafted horror-comedy follows young couple Brian (Patrick Martins) and Suzanne (Chrissie Cronin) as they finally land their dream home after a string of disappointments. The catch? Their new sea-facing South Dublin apartment comes with more than just a stunning view—strange happenings suggest a ghostly presence, leading Brian to seek spiritual assistance, while Suzanne remains stubbornly skeptical.
From the get-go, Conveyance strikes a perfect balance between horror and humor. The film leans into the absurdities of house hunting—constantly being outbid, dealing with odd roommates, and realizing you’re slowly morphing into your mother—all while delivering eerie tension and unexpected laughs. The script is tight, never overstaying its welcome, and the performances are strong across the board, with Cronin and Martins anchoring the story with natural chemistry and comedic timing.
Visually, Conveyance is a treat. The lighting and color choices are striking, enhancing both the film’s atmosphere and its underlying social commentary. While its premise may be exaggerated, it remains painfully relatable, offering a clever subversion of gender roles within the haunted house subgenre. The film also refreshingly addresses the classic “why don’t they just move out?” question, making the financial and emotional stakes feel all too real.
A fun nod to horror traditions is present, particularly in its take on the well-worn “Night of the Living Dead is on the TV because it’s public domain” trope. While the payoff could have been a bit stronger, Conveyance remains a thrilling ride from start to finish. It’s a great concept, well-executed, and would work excellently as a low-budget feature.
Forget poltergeists—the real nightmare is navigating the modern housing market. Conveyance makes that clear with sharp wit and a ghostly twist, proving that sometimes, the scariest thing about buying a home isn’t the hauntings—it’s the process itself.
Jessie Hobson