The Cold Open Poster

The Cold Open 2019

★ 7.52 votes4 min📅 2019-02-23

In Joel Gallen's ultra-short horror film *The Cold Open (2019)*, Aubrey Plaza headlines a razor-sharp satire where a coven of actresses performs a chilling ritual to protect the soul of independent cinema.

Director: Joel Gallen

Cast

Rosanna Arquette
Rosanna Arquette
Marcia Gay Harden
Marcia Gay Harden
Brian Tyree Henry
Brian Tyree Henry
Aubrey Plaza
Aubrey Plaza
Aubrey Plaza
Christina Ricci
Christina Ricci
Sharon Stone
Sharon Stone
Marisa Tomei
Marisa Tomei
Finn Wolfhard
Finn Wolfhard

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Cold Open (2019) about?

*The Cold Open* follows Aubrey Plaza as the leader of a secretive sisterhood of actresses who resort to occult means to safeguard independent cinema from fading into obscurity. Their ritual unfolds with eerie precision, blurring lines between devotion and desperation in a world where art struggles to matter.

Who directed The Cold Open?

Joel Gallen directed *The Cold Open*. Known for blending humor and horror in short-form storytelling, Gallen brings a sharp satirical lens to this unique micro-feature.

Who stars in The Cold Open?

The film stars Aubrey Plaza, Sharon Stone, Christina Ricci, Marcia Gay Harden, Brian Tyree Henry, and Rosanna Arquette as part of its occult ensemble.

Is The Cold Open (2019) worth watching?

*The Cold Open* is a fascinating 4-minute horror experiment with strong performances and a bold premise. While its runtime is brief, its themes and atmosphere make it a standout for horror and satire fans. Worth a stream if you're into quick, thought-provoking fright flicks.

How long is The Cold Open?

The Cold Open runs for 4 minutes.

About The Cold Open (2019) — A 4-Minute Horror Satire on Indie Film Survival

In Joel Gallen's ultra-short horror film *The Cold Open (2019)*, Aubrey Plaza headlines a razor-sharp satire where a coven of actresses performs a chilling ritual to protect the soul of independent cinema. Part dark comedy and part occult thriller, the 4-minute micro-feature blends biting cultural commentary with eerie visuals, turning the pressure-cooker world of indie filmmaking into a backdrop for a modern-day witch hunt. Plaza's deadpan intensity anchors the film, surrounded by a supporting cast that includes Sharon Stone and Christina Ricci, while Marcia Gay Harden and Brian Tyree Henry add layers of intrigue.

The cult's twisted offering unfolds with an atmosphere thick with tension and irony, questioning whether art—or the people who make it—can survive without selling out. Shot through with Gallan's signature satirical edge, *The Cold Open* is a brisk, thought-provoking horror treat that lingers long after the credits roll. Perfect for fans of micro-budget horror and meta-narratives, it's a must-watch for anyone curious about the lengths artists will go to preserve their vision.