Any expectations created by comparisons to Alive in Joburg — a piece Neill Blomkamp later expanded into a little film entitled District 9 — notwithstanding, I think The Gate could lead to something of real value. Deadline has news of the short-turned-feature, which its original director, Matt Westrup, will make his official debut on; Wayfare Entertainment are backing the picture, and a screenwriter is being sought to balloon the work into a film.

The Gate‘s focus is twofold: a series of genetic mutants who attack London citizens, and the actions of a shady pharmaceutical company that engaged in experiments which led to their creation. It’s no surprise, then, that an 8-minute affair with such big ambitions was something Westrup always intended to “expand and build upon” with more time and a bigger budget; with both of those at his disposal, the helmer hopes to make The Gate “a sci-fi thriller that is driven by a grounded, sophisticated plot and intriguing character arcs.” Taking a peek at the outing, I’d bet there’s room to create a gripping, fascinating sci-fi entry that’s still got plenty of bizarre creature effects galore.

You can watch the original short below: