The Break In 
Two teenage guys unexpectedly encounter something horrific when they break into a house.

Let’s face it: crime isn’t an easy or safe “profession”. You never know what could go wrong in a B&E. Maybe they’ve got a security camera, and the cops are on their way. Even worse, perhaps the mark being targeted is home, pissed off and has a gun?

Both good scenarios to contemplate before deciding to break the law. But then, teenagers generally aren’t known to be deep thinkers.

Definitely not Jake and Matt, in Jane Tumminello’s titular short The Break-In.

We meet these ne’er do well teens at night, as they’re casing a joint. Oceans Eleven, these 17 year old kids are not. Because the residence they’re eyeing isn’t a McMansion, but rather “located in a lower to middle-class suburb. The house is old, but it’s not a dump.”

Jake’s cocky and confident. But Matt? He’s a mass of nerves.

Particularly when he spots a faint, eerie light inside. He points it out to his partner in crime – is that an indication someone’s home?

JAKE
So? There’s no car in the driveway.

Matt says nothing, just looks unsure. 

JAKE 
Hey, if you don’t wanna do this, go. 
I’ll do it myself. 

A good opportunity for Matt to split. But teens aren’t always known for their best decision making skills, and Matt opts to stick to the plan. 

The would-be burglars split up; Jake casing the left side of the house. Matt checking the right.

No sign of a dog? Good omens for that point. And – due to Jake’s urgings – Matt’s got a knife ready in case things go… south.

Which they’re about to, as Matt boosts Jake up to a window – intending to open it and crawl in.

Matt and Jake probably would have loved a warning as to what comes next. But audiences will savor the dark twist. So, Directors, it’s up to you to read this script. A low budget shoot, it’s definitely one which brings the jump scares… a three page slice of horror one won’t soon forget!