Angel Of Death -2017- - Short Film [upd] May 2026

Directed by Jacob Chelkowski, the 2017 short film Angel of Death is a stylized, gothic, and surrealist thriller centered on themes of betrayal and vengeance. The plot follows Nastja, who seeks to avenge her father's murder by embracing a vampiric transformation to fight his greedy apprentice. For more details, visit IMDb. Angel of Death (Short 2017) - IMDb

Since "Angel of Death" is a fairly common title in the horror genre, this review focuses on the 2017 short film directed by Josh Hasty (often associated with the horror community and convention circuit).

Here is a review of the short film:

5. Production & Festival Run

• Budget: Low (~£15,000–20,000 GBP), raised via crowdfunding and private investment.
• Shooting location: London, UK (interiors at a decommissioned nursing home).
• Cinematography: Cold, desaturated colors; handheld camera for Elena’s unsteady moral state; static wide shots for clinical detachment.
• Festivals screened:
  • London Independent Film Festival (2017) – Best UK Short nominee
  • Raindance Film Festival (2017) – Official Selection
  • Nightmares Film Festival (Columbus, OH) – Best Thriller Short
  • Short of the Week (online premiere, 2018)

7. How to Watch

As of 2026, the primary 2017 Angel of Death short film is available on:

• YouTube (official upload by the director — search “Angel of Death 2017 short film Paul Tanter”)
• Short of the Week (archived)
• Vimeo On Demand (rent/buy)

Check festival alumni pages for occasional free seasonal screenings.

The Verdict

Score: 7/10

Angel of Death (2017) is a stylish love letter to the slasher genre. It succeeds as a visual showcase for director Josh Hasty, proving he can handle tone, tension, and practical horror effects with competence. While it lacks the narrative meat to be truly memorable on a story level, it is an effective and atmospheric watch for horror fans who miss the gritty vibe of 80s VHS tapes.

Who is this for?

• Fans of retro-style slashers.
• Viewers who appreciate strong cinematography and lighting in indie films.
• People looking for a quick, intense horror fix (under 15 minutes).

Who should skip it?

• Viewers who dislike short films that lack a deep plot.
• Those tired of standard "person gets stalked in the dark" tropes.

The 2017 short film Angel of Death (Polish title: Anioł Śmierci) is a stylized, avant-garde fantasy thriller directed by Jacob Chelkowski. Often described as a "surrealistic hypnotic journey," it explores themes of impossible love, betrayal, and revenge.  🎬 Production & Crew  Director/Writer: Jacob Chelkowski Cinematography: Michal Sosna

Genres: Short, Avant-Garde, Fantasy, Horror, Film Noir, Erotica Country of Origin: Poland  🎭 Main Cast  Dariusz Dluzewski as The Old Man / Father Kamila Kaminska as The Mysterious Woman Magdalena Muzyka as Blonde Girl Sebastian Oberc as The Young Old Man  📜 Key Narrative Themes 

The film is noted for its visual storytelling over a complex script, centering on: 

The Vengeful Seraph: Symbolic imagery of the "Angel of Death" acting as a force to re-balance the scales of fate.

Vampiric Transformation: One version of the story (often associated with the 2017 title) follows Nastja, whose father discovers a "cure" for death that actually turns people into vampires. After her father is murdered, Nastja chooses to become a vampire herself to seek revenge. 

✨ Wait! Are you looking for the Zoe Bell version?There is a more famous 2009 film called Angel of Death starring stuntwoman Zoe Bell as an assassin named Eve. If you're interested in that action-heavy version, let me know, and I can give you the breakdown for that instead!  Otherwise, tell me:  Are you researching this for a film class or review?

There are two primary short films released in 2017 titled Angel of Death

. Please see the details for each below to identify which one you are looking for: Angel of Death (Surreal Fantasy)

This film is described as a hypnotic journey centered on themes of impossible love and revenge. Director/Writer: Jacob Chelkowski

Dariusz Dluzewski (The Old Man/Father), Kamila Kaminska (The Mysterious Woman), and Magdalena Muzyka (Blonde Girl) Cinematography: Michal Sosna Angel of Death (Horror/Fantasy)

This version follows a protagonist named Nastja, who seeks revenge for her father's murder and ultimately chooses to become a vampire to fight her betrayer. Taavi Peelo

Katie Wood as Nastja, Taavi Peelo as Bastian, and Mark Hindman Smith as Alexander Plot Point:

The story involves a "cure" for sickness that inadvertently turns humans into monsters. promotional blurb for one of these specific versions? Angel of Death (Short 2017) - Full cast & crew - IMDb

While there isn't a single "academic paper" exclusively dedicated to the 2017 short film Angel of Death angel of death -2017- - short film

, there is significant production and critical context available for this surrealistic fantasy project directed by Jacob Chelkowski Film Overview & Synopsis

The 2017 short film is described as a "surrealistic hypnotic journey". Its plot revolves around: Betrayal and Revenge: The narrative follows

, the daughter of a scientist named Constantine who discovered a "cure" for death that actually curses people by turning them into vampires. The Conflict:

After her father is murdered by his greedy apprentice, Bastian, Nastja vows to make him suffer. Realizing she cannot defeat a vampire as a mortal, she chooses to become one herself to enact her revenge. Production Details: The film stars Kamila Kaminska Dariusz Dluzewski and has a rating of approximately Contextual Distinctions

It is easy to confuse this specific short with other similarly titled works. If you are writing a paper, ensure you distinguish it from: The 2009 Web Series/Film: A well-known action-thriller starring as an assassin who suffers a head injury. Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds (2017):

A major South Korean fantasy film involving "Angels of Death" (Guardians) guiding a firefighter through seven trials in the afterlife. The Surgery Horror Film (2018):

A gritty horror short featuring a mute surgeon, which was also in production around the same timeframe. WordPress.com Potential Themes for Analysis

If you are drafting a paper on the 2017 Chelkowski film, you might focus on: The Ethics of Immortality:

Examining the "cure" that turns out to be a curse, a common trope in gothic and surrealist cinema. Surrealist Visual Language:

Analyzing the "hypnotic" cinematography and how it reflects the internal transformation of the protagonist from human to monster. Gendered Agency in Revenge:

Comparing Nastja’s path to other "Angel of Death" archetypes, such as the ritual leader described in historical Viking accounts. Cambridge University Press & Assessment or finding more details on the cast and crew of this short? Angel of Death (Short 2017) - IMDb

Conclusion: The Legacy of the 2017 Angel

The 2017 short film Angel of Death remains a cult item among short film enthusiasts because it dared to slow down. In an era of jump scares and rapid cuts, this film forced the audience to sit in silence with the most terrifying concept of all: waiting.

For those who have been searching for the "angel of death -2017- - short film," you have found a piece of cinema that treats death not as a monster, but as a tired office worker who just wants to go home. It is beautiful, bleak, and unforgettable. Seek out the 14-minute cut. Listen for the tuning fork. And whatever you do—don't refuse the call.

Have you seen the 2017 short film Angel of Death? Share your interpretation of the ending (black tear vs. white suit) in the comments below.

There are two distinct short films titled Angel of Death released in 2017. Based on your request, you are likely looking for one of the following: Angel of Death (Fantasy/Surrealist) Directed and written by Jacob Chelkowski

, this short film is described as a "surrealistic hypnotic journey" focusing on themes of impossible love, betrayal, and revenge. Dariusz Dluzewski Kamila Kaminska , and Magdalena Muzyka. Production:

Chelkowski handled multiple roles including producer, editor, and screenwriter. Atmosphere:

It is noted for its dreamlike and experimental narrative style. Angel of Death (Vampire/Horror) Directed and written by Taavi Peelo

, this version is a supernatural horror story centered on a "cure" for death that turns people into monsters.

A man named Constantine believes he has found a cure for sickness and death, only to realize it turns subjects into vampires. After being betrayed and killed by his greedy apprentice, Bastian, Constantine's daughter, Nastja, vows to find and destroy him. Katie Wood

(as Nastja), Taavi Peelo (as Bastian), and Mark Hindman Smith. Note on other versions:

This title is frequently used; other notable entries include a 2009 web series starring and a 2014 short directed by JohnMark Triplett Which of these specific stories were you interested in learning more about? Angel of Death (Short 2017) - IMDb Directed by Jacob Chelkowski, the 2017 short film

The 2017 short film Angel of Death (also known by its Polish title Śmierć Anioła ) is a surrealist fantasy and horror piece directed by Jacob Chelkowski

. It is described as a hypnotic, avant-garde journey that explores themes of impossible love, betrayal, and revenge. Core Plot & Themes

The film is characterized by its surrealistic and film noir style. While the narrative is abstract, it centers on: Surrealist Journey

: The film follows a hypnotic path that blends elements of erotica and horror. Central Themes : The primary emotional drivers of the story are impossible love , and the subsequent cycle of Vampiric Elements

: Another 2017 film under the same title (directed by Taavi Peelo) follows a different plot involving a "cure" for sickness that inadvertently turns people into vampires, leading a daughter to seek revenge against a betrayer. However, the Jacob Chelkowski version is specifically noted for its avant-garde, "surrealistic" approach. Cast and Crew

The production features a mix of Polish and international talent: Director/Writer : Jacob Chelkowski Cinematography : Michal Sosna Key Cast Members Dariusz Dluzewski as The Old Man/Father Kamila Kaminska as The Mysterious Woman Magdalena Muzyka as Blonde Girl Sebastian Oberc as The Young Old Man Production Details : Short, Fantasy, Horror, Film Noir, Erotica, Avant-Garde User Rating : It holds a 5.9/10 on based on early reviews. other works Angel of Death (Short 2017) - IMDb

The 2017 short film Angel of Death (also known as Anioł Śmierci ) is a surrealistic fantasy-drama directed by Jacob Chelkowski

. It is frequently praised for its hypnotic visual style and experimental narrative structure. Production Credits Director/Writer/Editor Jacob Chelkowski Cinematography : Michal Sosna. Dariusz Dluzewski as The Old Man/Father. Kamila Kaminska as The Mysterious Woman. Magdalena Muzyka as the Blonde Girl. Core Themes & Plot

The film is described as a "surrealistic hypnotic journey" focusing on three primary emotional pillars: impossible love, betrayal, and revenge

. Rather than a linear story, it uses a moody, atmospheric approach to explore the following: Cycles of Revenge

: The narrative touches on unquiet souls seeking justice or balance. Supernatural Elements

: It blends fantasy with raw human emotion, often categorized alongside surrealist works that challenge standard perceptions of time and reality. Visual Narrative

: Reviewers often note that the film relies heavily on its cinematography and tone rather than dense dialogue to convey its meaning. Critical Reception : It holds a user rating of approximately Atmosphere

: Viewers and critics highlight its unique "noirish" and dreamlike aesthetic. Note on Similar Titles: There is another 2017 film titled Angel of Death

directed by Taavi Peelo, which is an action-fantasy involving a cure for death that turns people into vampires. Ensure you are following the Jacob Chelkowski version if you are looking for the surrealist short. visual symbols used in the film, or perhaps more details on the director’s other works Angel of Death (Short 2017) - IMDb

* Jacob Chelkowski. * Writer. Jacob Chelkowski. * Dariusz Dluzewski. Kamila Kaminska. Magdalena Muzyka. Angel of Death (Short 2017) - IMDb

The Angel of Death (2017) is a surrealistic Polish short film directed by Jacob Chelkowski. It is characterized by its hypnotic, dreamlike atmosphere and a narrative centered on themes of impossible love, betrayal, and revenge. Film Overview Release Year: 2017 Director: Jacob Chelkowski Genre: Fantasy / Short Film Runtime: Approximately 20 minutes Production Country: Poland Cast and Crew

The production features a primarily Polish cast and crew, often cited on IMDb. Writer/Director: Jacob Chelkowski Cinematography: Michal Sosna Key Cast: Dariusz Dluzewski as The Old Man/Father Kamila Kaminska as The Mysterious Woman Magdalena Muzyka as Blonde Girl Sebastian Oberc as The Young Old Man Karolina Palac as The Daughter

The film is described as a "surrealistic hypnotic journey". While the 2017 short film's narrative is abstract, it is often confused with other works of the same title. Users looking for more details can find complete production credits on IMDb or view basic film data on Кинопоиск. Critical Reception

On IMDb, the film holds a user rating of 5.9/10, reflecting its niche, experimental nature. It was produced with a modest estimated budget of €5,000.

Important Note: Do not confuse this Polish short with the 2017 British action-fantasy film Angel of Death (directed by Taavi Peelo), which follows a daughter's quest for revenge against a vampire. Angel of Death (Short 2017) - Full cast & crew - IMDb

Angel of Death (2017) is a visceral, low-budget short film that blends elements of psychological horror and dark fantasy to explore the thin line between mercy and malice. Directed by Tomer Stolz, this brief but impactful cinematic piece serves as a character study of a celestial being burdened with the most unenviable task in the universe. The Premise and Narrative Arc London Independent Film Festival (2017) – Best UK

The 2017 short film introduces us to a version of the "Grim Reaper" that feels grounded and weary. Rather than the traditional hooded skeleton wielding a scythe, the "Angel of Death" in this iteration is portrayed with a human-like vulnerability, reflecting the emotional toll of witnessing humanity's final moments.

The story follows the Angel as he navigates a series of encounters with those whose time has come. The narrative doesn't rely on jump scares; instead, it builds tension through atmospheric dread and the philosophical weight of the dialogue. The central conflict often revolves around the Angel’s own internal struggle—balancing his divine duty with the flickers of empathy he feels for his "clients." Aesthetic and Direction

For a 2017 independent short, the film stands out for its stylistic choices:

Atmospheric Cinematography: The film utilizes a muted color palette, emphasizing shadows and cold tones to create a sense of isolation.

Sound Design: The auditory experience is crucial, with a haunting score that underscores the inevitability of the Angel’s presence.

Minimalist Set Design: By keeping the locations sparse, Stolz ensures that the focus remains entirely on the performances and the heavy themes of mortality. Themes of Mortality and Mercy

The "Angel of Death - 2017" focuses heavily on the concept of inevitability. It challenges the viewer to look at death not as a villainous force, but as a necessary transition. The film explores:

The Weight of Duty: What happens to a being that only knows the end of things?

Human Connection: The brief, intense bonds formed between the Reaper and the dying.

The Illusion of Choice: How humans react when they realize their time is up, ranging from bargaining to peaceful acceptance. Impact and Reception

In the landscape of 2017 short films, Angel of Death gained traction in indie circles for its ability to tell a "big" story on a small scale. It served as a calling card for the creative team, showcasing their ability to handle high-concept supernatural themes with a mature, grounded touch.

For fans of the "Death personified" trope—seen in works like The Sandman or Meet Joe Black—this short film offers a grittier, more intimate perspective. It’s a somber meditation on the one thing that connects every human being: the end of the road. Conclusion

"Angel of Death" (2017) remains a notable entry in the short horror/fantasy genre. It strips away the theatricality often associated with the Grim Reaper, leaving behind a haunting portrait of a lonely entity performing a grim but essential service. It’s a must-watch for those who appreciate cinema that asks difficult questions about life, death, and what might lie in between.

Critical Reception

Critics praised Angel of Death for its tonal balance and lead performance. It was lauded for managing to be grimly funny without becoming disrespectful to its subject matter. The film was recognized for its strong visual storytelling and the distinct, quirky voice of the director.

Awards and Nominations:

• Galway Film Fleadh: Nominated for Best First Short Drama.
• Irish Short Film Awards: Recognized for writing and performance.
• The film was later acquired for streaming on platforms specializing in independent short films, broadening its reach beyond the festival circuit.

Note: There was also a 2017 Indian short film titled "Angel of Death" directed by Anand Kumar, which deals with themes of crime and punishment, but the Irish film directed by Katie Mullen is the one most frequently cited in cinematic studies and festival literature.

Plot Summary: A Mercy That Kills

Unlike the mythological "Angel of Death" (Malach HaMavet) who passively takes souls, the 2017 adaptation re-imagines the entity as an active, corporeal force.

The film opens in a sterile, cold hospital room. We meet Sarah, a hospice nurse nearing burnout. She is assigned to Elias, an elderly painter who is terminally ill and in excruciating pain—pain that modern medicine cannot touch. While the doctors see Elias as a chart of failing organs, Sarah sees a man begging for silence from his suffering.

Enter the titular character. The Angel is not a man in black, but an androgynous, silent figure played with unsettling stillness. They appear first as a reflection in the window, then as a physical presence in the corner of the room. Here, the film subverts the horror trope: The doctors and the family are terrified of the Angel, but Elias smiles when he sees it.

The tension of the angel of death -2017- - short film hinges on Sarah’s moral dilemma. The Angel doesn't wield a scythe; it wields a whisper. It offers Sarah a vial of black liquid—a catalyst. The film poses the question: Does the Angel come to kill, or to release?

The climax occurs not in violence, but in silence. Sarah must choose between the Hippocratic Oath (preserve life) and human compassion (end suffering). When she finally nods to the Angel, the film cuts to a stunning visual: Elias’s hospital monitor flatlines, but the shadows on the wall show his youthful self running through a field of wheat.