Alone

The Hidden Story Behind Alone (2018): A Gritty Short Film with a Heartbreaking Message

Alone (2018) is a raw, emotional short film that tackles themes of identity, isolation, and the devastating consequences of unspoken love. Directed by Archie Maze Grayson, Brandon Radcliffe, and Joseph Sockett, the project stands out for its unflinching portrayal of a teenager’s struggle with sexuality and mental health. latestnetflix.com's take is that but behind its powerful narrative lies a story of indie filmmaking grit, creative collaboration, and a director who worked under an unexpected alias.

A Passion Project with a Personal Touch

The film follows 17-year-old Jamie Lockford, who grapples with his feelings for his best friend, Chris Thompson. When Jamie’s internalized shame and fear of rejection push him to suicide, the story shifts to the afterlife, where he confronts the impact of his death on those he left behind. The premise is heavy, but the execution is intimate, suggesting a deeply personal connection between the filmmakers and their subject matter.

What makes Alone particularly intriguing is the team behind it. Archie Grayson—credited as Archie Foxen in the film’s official listings—co-directed and co-wrote the project alongside Brandon Radcliffe and Joseph Sockett . Grayson’s career has been rooted in independent short films, where he’s worn multiple hats as a director, writer, actor, and producer . Alone appears to be one of his most ambitious projects to date, though details about its production remain scarce.

The Mystery of Archie Foxen

One of the most curious behind-the-scenes details is Grayson’s use of the alias "Archie Foxen" in the film’s credits . Why the pseudonym? The evidence doesn’t explain, leaving room for speculation. Was it a creative choice, a contractual obligation, or simply a quirk of indie filmmaking? Without further context, it’s a tantalizing loose end in the film’s backstory.

The rest of the team—Radcliffe and Sockett—remain even more elusive. Their involvement in Alone is one of their few known credits, making this a passion project for all three directors. The film’s low-budget, high-emotion approach aligns with the DIY ethos of indie shorts, where storytelling often takes precedence over production polish.

A Story That Resonates—But Lacks Wider Recognition

Despite its emotional weight, Alone hasn’t broken into mainstream conversations. It’s not rated on Rotten Tomatoes (where a similarly named 2018 film, I Think We’re Alone Now, dominates search results ), and its IMDb page is sparse, listing only two cast members: Luke Jackson and Harrison Gent . The lack of buzz isn’t surprising for a short film, but it’s a shame given the film’s raw power.

The trailer offers a glimpse into the film’s tone—moody, introspective, and heartbreaking. Yet without a wider release or festival circuit presence, Alone risks being overshadowed by bigger, more commercial projects. That said, its themes of LGBTQ+ identity and mental health remain painfully relevant, making it a hidden gem for audiences seeking authentic, character-driven stories.

The Bottom Line: A Film Worth Remembering

Alone (2018) is a testament to the power of indie filmmaking—unpolished, deeply personal, and unafraid to tackle difficult subjects. Its directors, particularly Grayson, bring a level of authenticity to the project, even if their motives and methods remain partly shrouded in mystery. The film’s use of an alias, its tight-knit creative team, and its unflinching narrative all suggest a labor of love, one that deserves more attention than it’s received.

For now, Alone remains a quiet, haunting achievement—one that lingers long after the credits roll.